5 Steps To Obtain A Sign Permit Successfully

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Obtaining a sign permit can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the process. However, with the right guidance, you can navigate the system successfully and get your sign permit in no time. In this article, we will outline the 5 steps to obtain a sign permit successfully.

Understanding the Importance of a Sign Permit

Before we dive into the steps, it's essential to understand why a sign permit is necessary. A sign permit ensures that your sign complies with local regulations and ordinances, which are in place to maintain public safety and aesthetic appeal. Without a permit, you risk facing fines, penalties, and even the removal of your sign.

Step 1: Research Local Regulations and Ordinances

The first step in obtaining a sign permit is to research local regulations and ordinances. This involves contacting your local government agency responsible for sign permits and inquiring about the specific requirements for your area. You can usually find this information on the agency's website or by visiting their office in person.

Some of the things you'll want to research include:

• Sign size and height restrictions
• Sign type and material restrictions
• Setback requirements from property lines and roads
• Illumination restrictions
• Permitted sign locations

Example of Local Regulations and Ordinances

For example, let's say you're looking to install a sign in a residential area. Your local government agency may have regulations that restrict sign size to 2 square feet or less, and require a minimum setback of 10 feet from the property line.

Step 2: Prepare Your Sign Design and Plans

Once you've researched local regulations and ordinances, it's time to prepare your sign design and plans. This involves creating a detailed drawing or rendering of your sign, including its size, shape, material, and location.

Some things to consider when preparing your sign design and plans include:

• Sign size and scale
• Sign shape and material
• Color scheme and graphics
• Illumination and electrical plans
• Structural integrity and anchoring systems

Example of Sign Design and Plans

For example, let's say you're designing a sign for a new restaurant. Your design plan may include a 4-foot by 8-foot sign made of aluminum, with a red and white color scheme and a stylized logo. You may also include plans for LED illumination and a sturdy anchoring system to ensure the sign can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Step 3: Submit Your Application and Plans

With your sign design and plans in hand, it's time to submit your application and plans to the local government agency responsible for sign permits. This typically involves filling out a permit application form and attaching your sign design and plans, as well as paying any required fees.

Some things to consider when submitting your application and plans include:

• Ensure all required information is complete and accurate
• Attach all required plans and drawings
• Pay all required fees and deposits
• Allow sufficient time for review and processing

Example of Permit Application Form

For example, let's say you're submitting a permit application for a new sign in a commercial area. The application form may require information such as your name and address, sign type and size, location, and contact information for your sign installer.

Step 4: Wait for Review and Approval

After submitting your application and plans, it's time to wait for review and approval. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of your application and the workload of the local government agency.

Some things to consider while waiting for review and approval include:

• Allow sufficient time for review and processing
• Be prepared to address any questions or concerns
• Follow up with the agency if necessary

Example of Review and Approval Process

For example, let's say you submitted a permit application for a new sign in a residential area. The local government agency may review your application and plans to ensure compliance with local regulations and ordinances, and then contact you with any questions or concerns. Once your application is approved, you'll receive a permit that allows you to install your sign.

Step 5: Install Your Sign and Obtain Final Inspection

Once you've received your permit, it's time to install your sign and obtain final inspection. This involves hiring a licensed sign installer to install your sign, and then scheduling a final inspection with the local government agency to ensure compliance with local regulations and ordinances.

Some things to consider when installing your sign and obtaining final inspection include:

• Hire a licensed and experienced sign installer
• Ensure sign is installed correctly and safely
• Schedule final inspection with the local government agency

Example of Sign Installation and Final Inspection

For example, let's say you hired a licensed sign installer to install your new sign in a commercial area. The installer ensures the sign is installed correctly and safely, and then you schedule a final inspection with the local government agency to verify compliance with local regulations and ordinances.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide on how to obtain a sign permit successfully. Remember to research local regulations and ordinances, prepare your sign design and plans, submit your application and plans, wait for review and approval, and install your sign and obtain final inspection. By following these steps, you can ensure that your sign is installed correctly and safely, and that you comply with local regulations and ordinances.