News & Events

PSL Pointers: Permitting & Zoning

September 30, 2011

If you’ll permit…
There’s definitely a right way and a wrong way to the process of obtaining signage permits and working with your local zoning authorities. The first rule of thumb is “be prepared.” You’ll need directions to the store location or job site, scale drawings of the signage clearly showing dimensions, square footage, structural design of the signage and any accompanying or surrounding landscaping. You’ll also need a plot plan that clearly shows location of structures and other features (such as curbs, driveways, ramps, etc.) and the distance of the proposed signage from the property line. Once you have these documents and plans assembled, you’re ready.

It’s best to start with the developer and/or landlord. If the business structure is “blank,” meaning that there’s no existing signage on site, you’ll need to determine if the developer/landlord has any restrictive policies that need to be accommodated. If they do and their restrictions get in the way of your business’ branding, this is where you can negotiate the terms. Chances are, they’ll be willing to bend their rules a bit in the interest of keeping a tenant — especially in this economy. The next step is to apply for the signage permits with the local city or county authorities.

Zoning is another matter. It’s different from town to town, county to county. Make sure you understand what’s being enforced in the surrounding community before you apply for permits. Don’t assume that you’ll be allowed to erect an elevated site sign if there’s a city ordinance that prohibits billboard-type signage in residential areas. Since many neighborhood retail centers and pad sites butt up against the neighborhoods they serve, this could present a problem if your monument solution and/or building signs need to be seen from a major thoroughfare or from a block or two away.

But the absolute best way to approach zoning restrictions and signage permitting is to just leave it all to us. You’ve got enough to think about opening and running your business. At PSL, we navigate that jungle on a daily basis for our clients.

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