Do You Have A Permit For That Sign?

Installing the new TKO Graphix building sign
An often over­looked aspect of having a sign made is the per­mit­ting process, which can cause BIG issues — either while the sign is being built or, worse, after the sign has been installed. If the sign has already been installed, but is being refur­bished (ex: refacing the letters on an exterior wall sign), a permit may not be required. However, if the structure of the sign is being changed, a permit will most likely be needed. If it’s a new sign, you’ll also need a permit. Here are a few pointers on where and how to obtain a sign permit:

Where is the sign located? Counties, towns, and districts vary on permit require­ments and costs. Begin by sub­mit­ting your address to your local munic­i­pal­ity to determine the jurisdiction.

Do you own the building or lease? If the building is leased, a letter from the landlord, per­mit­ting instal­la­tion of a sign by the named sign provider, will be necessary.

Site plans, elevation drawings, and a layout of the sign on the building are pre­req­ui­sites to obtaining a new sign permit. The owner of the building should have copies of the site plan and elevation drawings; however, they’re usually available at the local assessor’s office. The sign provider should produce the layout.

The time needed to procure a permit varies, but is usually 2–4 weeks. The cost of a permit will vary as well. For example, in Plain­field, Indiana, a wall sign will incur a $32 filing fee and a $50 permit fee, plus, $1 per square foot. A pole sign is $32, $300, and $1 per square foot.*
* rates are subject to change.

The permit process for signage can be confusing, time consuming, and expensive, but we can help. If you’d like more infor­ma­tion, contact us — we’re happy to share our knowledge and advice.