If you’re opening a new business or you’re growing into a new space, you want a striking sign to let everyone know where to find you. And then, like most exciting things, you need to deal with paperwork and red tape in the form of a sign permit. But don’t fear! With Starfish Signs & Graphics, you can avoid the stress and confusion of navigating the permitting process on your own.
At Starfish, our goal is to have your permit application approved the first time it is submitted, saving you time and money. Thanks to our years of experience, our team is able to help you stay on track and get your permit needs in order quickly.
Why Do I Need a Permit?
In most cities in California, a sign permit is required for building-mounted signs, freestanding signs, and monument signs. The permit process typically involves a review by the Planning Department (for size, location, and overall aesthetics) and the Building Department (for proper construction, security of attachment, and safety).
Each city has different requirements, and those requirements often vary from one building to another, even within the same city.
When To Start The Permit Process?
According to Laura Reilly, the CEO of Starfish, “If you are planning to install a sign by the end of the year, you should start the process now. There can be delays in some cities due to increased volume of permits and staffing shortages.”
“We get fast city approval because our designers create well-organized sign packages.” – Laura Reilly
5 Steps to Get a Permit
- Research
The permitting process begins as soon as you call us for a sign quote. We start by researching and understanding the specific requirements for both your city and your building, as well as any unique considerations that may apply to your project. We take this step to ensure that we are fully prepared to meet your needs and navigate the permitting process on your behalf.
- Quote
Once we’ve compiled acceptable options that meet both your requirements and permitting requirements, we present those to you, along with pricing for the different types of signs. This may include illuminated or non-illuminated, type of illumination (e.g., face, halo, or exterior illumination), and various construction materials. The design concepts that we feel represent your brand best will be presented as renderings and, eventually, detailed proofs.
- Application
Once you have approved the final design proof, we prepare a combined sign package and permit application. This package includes all of the information needed by your landlord and the city to review and approve your building’s sign.
- Approval
By being well-prepared and thorough, we avoid corrections and minimize the time needed for approval. Once the permit application has been approved, the city fees are determined and will need to be paid (as they are only calculated once the permitting process is complete). Upon payment, your sign permit is formally issued.
- Installation & Inspection
After fabrication and installation, the final step in the permitting process is inspection. The city inspector visits the sign location to verify the method of attachment, electrical connections, UL sticker for illuminated signs, accurate color and sizing, and location based on the approved sign plan. Following their signoff, you can enjoy your beautiful, fully permitted new sign!
Put our permitting skills to the test! Contact us today for even the most challenging permitting situations. Want to do a deeper dive into the specifics that are included in a permit application? Check out this other Starfish blog update to explore even more details about the process.