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State-by-State Sign Laws and Permits for Businesses
Article Date: September 5, 2024Share this article
Understanding local sign regulations is crucial for any business. It ensures that your signs follow the rules and help avoid fines or forced removals. Abiding by these regulations also ensures that your signs are appropriately placed and designed to maximize visibility.
Each state has unique requirements, from historic districts to coastal zones, making it challenging to navigate the regulations. However, following these rules simplifies the process of securing a sign permit. This guide provides short insights into state-by-state sign ordinances, helping ensure your signs comply with local laws and effectively represent your brand in every location.
State-by-State Sign Regulations
Alabama
Local zoning ordinances dictate the placement and size of signs, while historic districts require compliance with preservation guidelines. Additionally, signs must adhere to strict regulations on lighting intensity and timing.
You can secure your permits here and follow the document's instructions properly.
Alaska
Seasonal weather conditions can affect signage regulations, and special permits are required for signs in historic sites and remote areas. Due to harsh weather, materials used for signs must meet specific durability standards.
Arizona
Signs must use colors that blend with the natural desert environment and be designed to withstand high wind speeds. Placement must avoid interference with protected native plants.
You can read more about Arizona's state permits here.
Arkansas
Most of the state's outdoor signs regulations follow the capital Little Rock's guidelines. There are also specific rulings for signs in flood-prone areas, and permits may be required for signs on agricultural land. Signs near historical landmarks require additional review.
California
Signs must meet several safety standards and may require additional permits within the Coastal Zone. Large signs, particularly those that compete with other businesses and private homes, may also need environmental impact assessments.
The California government website provides information on the requirements for sign permits for standard, political, and commercial signs.
Colorado
Special guidelines apply to signs in mountainous areas, including snow load considerations. Placement must also consider the impact on local wildlife corridors.
You can check out the zoning guidelines in Denver to get an idea of how to secure and sign permits properly.
Connecticut
Stricter rules govern signs within residential subdivisions, while signs along state scenic roadways have heightened restrictions. Temporary sign regulations may vary seasonally, especially in resort areas.
You can read more about their strict regulations and how you can apply for a permit here.
Delaware
Signage near wetlands is subject to strict restrictions, and signs within coastal zones are subject to stringent guidelines. Special permits are required for signs in designated tourism districts.
You can submit your sign permit application along with the following information:
- Location of signs
- Sign dimensions
- Lighting methods
- Sign materials
Florida
Signs must be designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, and there are unique guidelines for signs in high-tourism zones. Placement near wetlands and waterways is subject to strict rules.
You can learn more about Florida's sign laws here.
Georgia
Signs in historic preservation areas must follow additional guidelines, and there is encouragement to align sign design with local aesthetics. Placement must also avoid damage to protected tree canopies.
You can follow the City of Atlanta's sign permits, which will most likely apply to other cities within the state.
Hawaii
Signs must respect cultural and historical sites, with strict regulations to preserve natural scenic views. Additionally, signs must be durable and resistant to weather changes in a location with tropical climate.
You can read a more comprehensive guide for your signage here.
Idaho
Different permit requirements exist for urban versus rural areas, and some permits may require an environmental impact review. Signs must also meet durability standards for heavy snowfall.
If you are planning on erecting signs near the Historic district, best secure a Certificate of Appropriateness alongside your permit.
Illinois
Chicago has unique sign regulations, and farmland signage requires specific permits. Stricter guidelines apply to signs near Lake Michigan, especially in lakefront property areas.
Indiana
Signs in historic districts require permits, and additional rules apply near state fairgrounds. Seasonal adjustment regulations dictate varying guidelines for temporary signage.
You can read more about the state’s sign regulations, along with the fees for installation.
Iowa
Businesses must navigate specific sign regulations that vary depending on location. In agricultural zones, permits are required for sign installation, ensuring that the signs do not interfere with the rural landscape or farming activities.
Floodplain areas have strict guidelines due to the potential impact of flooding, which may involve additional permits or design requirements to withstand water damage. University towns may impose unique signage rules tailored to the local community, including size, placement, and content restrictions to maintain aesthetic harmony and safety.
Kansas
Signs must meet wind resistance standards, with special permits required for agricultural land. Historic Route 66 features unique signage guidelines reflecting its cultural significance.
For more detailed information and specific requirements, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) provides guidelines and applications for signage permits.
Kentucky
Signage near horse farms must follow specific design criteria, while the Bourbon Trail has unique guidelines. Historic areas require additional permits for signage.
Most Kentucky sign compliance laws are drafted to comply with Frankfort City’s rules and guidelines, including a filing of Sign Permit Application and a final inspection before issuing a certificate of completion.
Louisiana
Signs near wetlands must adhere to environmental standards, and the French Quarter has unique rules. Signs must also withstand hurricanes due to the state's vulnerability.
n New Orleans, you can submit a signed application form along with the following documents for your signage approval:
- Signage fees
- Site plan indicating where the sign will be mounted
- Structural and foundation calculations
- Certificate of completion from an engineer or architect
- Certificate of responsibility (for signs more than 100 sq. ft.)
Maine
Signage application is done at the Maine Dept. of Transportation's Right-of-Way Control section. Coastal areas require additional sign permits and must be designed to withstand harsh winter conditions. Stricter regulations apply along scenic byways.
Maryland
Special regulations govern signs near the Chesapeake Bay, and historic districts require additional permits. Seasonal signage rules vary, particularly in resort towns.
You can learn more about Chesapeake Bay’s sign permits and get access to the forms here.
Massachusetts
Permissions to set up and maintain the signs are under the Department of Transportation sign and advertising regulations.
In colonial historic districts, signage is subject to stricter guidelines to preserve the area's character. Coastal zoning regulations require signs near the coast to meet specific standards, including those related to environmental protection. Additionally, signs must be made to withstand heavy snowfall, ensuring durability through harsh winters.
Michigan
Signage near the Great Lakes requires additional permits to protect these critical natural resources. Signs must comply with snow load standards to resist snow and ice accumulation. Rust Belt regulations dictate that sign materials must be rust and corrosion-resistant, which are common in the area due to industrial activity and weather conditions.
Minnesota
Signs in Minnesota must be designed to endure significant snow and ice accumulation. Lakefront properties are subject to specific guidelines to preserve the natural beauty and prevent environmental degradation. Rural areas have different signage regulations than urban areas, with requirements tailored to the landscape and community needs.
You can also look more into signs and zone ordinances here.
Mississippi
Signs installed in flood-prone areas must comply with strict flood zone regulations to minimize potential damage. Historic preservation areas require additional permits to ensure the signs do not detract from the historical significance. Agricultural land may also require special permits for farming operations and land use.
Missouri
Signs in tornado-prone areas of Missouri must be designed to withstand extreme wind conditions. In the Ozark region, unique guidelines are in place to protect the area's natural beauty. Additionally, signs along historic Route 66 are subject to special rules that preserve the iconic route's historic and cultural significance.
Montana
Montana has specific guidelines for signage in rural areas. Signs must be built to withstand heavy snow, especially in mountainous regions. Regulations also ensure that signages do not obstruct the state's scenic views, a significant aspect of its natural beauty.
You can visit this site to learn more about Montana's sign restrictions and how to comply.
Nebraska
Signs in Nebraska must meet wind load standards due to the state's exposure to strong winds. Special permits are required for signage on agricultural land to ensure compatibility with farming activities. Additional guidelines must be followed in historic districts to preserve the area's historical ambiance.
Nevada
Signs in Nevada must be durable enough to resist the extreme heat and sun exposure typical of the desert climate. Gambling districts have unique signage regulations to maintain the area's distinct visual appeal. Different requirements apply to rural versus urban areas, reflecting the diverse landscape and population density.
You can fill out the Las Vegas Department of Building & Safety permit application form to apply for a signage certificate.
New Hampshire
Temporary signage in New Hampshire must adhere to seasonal adjustment rules, varying by season. For permanent signs, you must submit the accomplished application form together with two (2) sets of the following documents:
- Proposed Sign Plan: A scaled drawing showing construction, support, and illumination details.
- Lot Plan: Scaled plan showing building, parking, driveways, and landscaping.
- Building Elevations: Photographs of existing and proposed building elevations.
- Existing Sign Locations: Indication of existing sign locations on all plans.
- Existing Sign Details: Photograph and description of each existing sign's specifics.
- Future Sign Locations: Indication and description of proposed future signs on plans.
Historic districts require additional permits to ensure that signs respect the historical context. Signs in mountainous terrain must meet specific durability standards to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
New Jersey
Coastal zones in New Jersey require additional permits for signage to protect the environment and prevent damage from coastal weather. Historic districts have stricter guidelines to maintain the area's historical integrity. Regulations differ between urban and suburban areas, with rules tailored to each setting's needs.
The regulations made by the capital city of Trenton can give you an idea about New Jersey's sign laws.
New Mexico
Signs in New Mexico must be designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the desert environment, including extreme heat. Additional permits are required for signs near Pueblo lands to respect local cultures. Wind load durability is also critical, with standards in place to ensure signs can resist strong winds.
You can refer to the Santa Fe Sign Permit Checklist for more information on sign requirements and pricing.
New York
In New York, signage regulations are stringent within New York City, with unique design, placement, and size guidelines. The Adirondack Park requires additional sign permits to protect its natural and scenic environment. Historic districts across the state also have specific guidelines that must be followed to preserve historical integrity.
North Carolina
The Outer Banks region in North Carolina has unique rules for signage due to its coastal location and tourism appeal. Special permits are required for signs in mountainous areas to account for environmental and aesthetic considerations, and historic districts impose additional permit requirements to maintain the area's historical significance.
North Dakota
Signage in North Dakota must meet wind load standards, especially in areas prone to high winds. Floodplain restrictions require signs in flood-prone areas to adhere to specific guidelines to prevent damage. Special permits are also needed for signs on agricultural land to ensure compatibility with farming activities.
The City of Bismarck has a step-by-step guide to applying for a sign permit using their Citizen Online Portal.
Ohio
Signs near Lake Erie in Ohio require additional permits to protect the shoreline's natural environment. Historic districts impose stricter guidelines on signage to preserve the area's character. Different regulations apply to rural versus urban areas, reflecting the state's diverse landscape and population density.
Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, signs must meet tornado alley standards to withstand extreme weather conditions. Rural areas have specific permit requirements that differ from urban settings.
In Oklahoma City, the following documents must be submitted together with the sign permit application form:
- Drawn site plan with lot lines, property lines, and building dimensions
- Signage plan including proper dimensions, materials, and the appearance of the proposed signage
- Landscape plan for monument/ground-based signs
Oregon
Oregon requires additional permits for signage in coastal zones to protect the environment and accommodate coastal weather conditions. Signs in mountainous regions must meet specific durability standards to withstand the challenges of the terrain.
Questions regarding the sign laws in Oregon can be answered on their official government website.
Pennsylvania
The Amish County in Pennsylvania has special signage regulations that respect the community's unique way of life. Historic districts across the state require stricter guidelines to preserve historical integrity.
Meanwhile, you must secure appropriate permits, drawn plans, sign details, and dimensions when applying in urban areas like Harrisburg City.
The Appalachian region also has unique signage regulations to protect its natural and cultural heritage, and no advertising could be done on the trail.
Rhode Island
The state uses a web-based portal for sign permit applications across cities. Strict regulations apply in coastal zones to protect scenic views. Additional permits are also required for historic district signs, especially Newport. Temporary signage in seasonal tourist areas has guidelines based on the tourist season.
South Carolina
Signs in the Lowcountry must adhere to design standards that preserve the natural landscape. Special regulations govern signage in Charleston's historic areas, focusing on material and design. Due to frequent hurricanes, signs must also meet wind resistance standards.
If you need to apply for a sign permit, you can log in and create an account using the government's outdoor advertising site.
South Dakota
Signage near Mount Rushmore has unique restrictions, including height and size limits. Signages within the historical monument must comply with the Commercial Use Authorizations handled by the national park.
Different permit requirements also exist for rural versus urban areas like Sioux Falls. Signs must be designed to withstand heavy snow accumulation during winter.
Tennessee
In the Smoky Mountains region, signs must blend with the environment and not obstruct natural views. Nashville, especially downtown and historic areas, has additional signage regulations. You may read more about Nashville's signage requirements here.
Texas
Signs must be designed to withstand high wind speeds, especially in tornado-prone areas. Special permits are required for signage on or near oil and gas lands. Unique guidelines govern signage in historic places, such as the Alamo in San Antonio.
Utah
Stricter regulations apply to signs along designated scenic byways, especially near national parks. Signs must meet snow load standards in mountainous areas. Additional guidelines are enforced in the Mormon Pioneer Heritage Area to preserve cultural and historical significance.
To apply for a sign permit in Salt Lake City, you create an account on their website, log in, and submit the application form along with the following requirements.
- Provide three (3) complete sets of site plans, elevations, and engineering specifications.
- Obtain a separate electrical permit for signs that involve wiring.
- Secure a separate permit for signs installed on public property.
Vermont
Regulations focus on preserving scenic landscapes by restricting sign size and placement. Permits are required for signs in historic districts, with design restrictions to maintain historical integrity. Signs must be able to withstand harsh winter conditions, including snow and ice.
Virginia
Special rules govern signage in Colonial Williamsburg, focusing on period-appropriate design. Signs near the Blue Ridge Parkway must adhere to guidelines that preserve natural scenery. Stricter guidelines apply to signs in historic districts like Old Town Alexandria and Richmond.
Washington
Due to earthquake risks, signs must comply with seismic safety regulations. Additional permits are required for signs in coastal areas, especially near Puget Sound. Signs in historic districts like those in Seattle and Spokane must meet specific design and material guidelines.
West Virginia
Signage must not obstruct natural views in the Appalachian region and must adhere to environmental protection standards. Additional regulations apply to signs in historic coal towns, preserving the area's heritage. Due to the state's mountainous terrain, signs must meet wind resistance standards.
The City of Charleston's Planning Department is responsible for enforcing zoning ordinances and signage regulations.
Wisconsin
Additional permits are required for signs near the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. Signs must be durable enough to withstand heavy snowfall and extreme cold. Stricter guidelines govern signs in historic districts, such as Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward.
Wyoming
Sign placement must consider the impact on local wildlife and adhere to conservation guidelines in wildlife corridors. Signs must withstand high winds, especially in open plains. Unique restrictions apply to signage near national parks, including height and design limitations. Wyoming's Department of Transportation handles all inquiries regarding state signage, though official applications and rulings vary depending on the city you are in, such as the case with Cheyenne.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the state-specific sign ordinances is essential for any business looking to establish a strong and compliant presence. By understanding the unique regulations in each state, you can ensure that your signs are effective and meet local requirements. Whether expanding your business, updating existing signs, or promoting specific sales, following state laws will help protect your sign investments and maintain your brand's integrity across all locations.Share this article
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