Sign regulations and permits can be very different from town to town. The approval process ranges from very basic and convenient to complex and time-consuming. Start by verifying the zoning category for your business location from your town zoning map. Then study the applicable sign regulations, usually found within the town zoning guide or building code. These will help you narrow the scope of your design options. Your local sign regulations usually limit the square foot area of your signage according to the size of your storefront facade. These regulations can also limit the number and type of sign you can display on the outside of the building, the number of colors, etc.

You may need to check with the Building Inspector or Zoning Administrator to interpret these regulations for your specific situation. These people almost always are very cooperative and eager to get you on the right track early, in order to avoid problems for everyone later on. Be assured, you want to stay on their good side, so do your homework, be charming, respectful and honest with the administrators, and they well make the process a lot easier. If your plans are rejected by the Building Inspector's office, usually it's because they violate some provision of the code. You usually have the option of appealing for a Special Zoning Variance, through the Planning Board, with a public hearing for your case. This is an expensive and time-consuming process, with the burden of proof entirely on you, so don't undertake it lightly.

In some communities, a citizen's "design review board" also has authority over sign permits. These boards have the mission of keeping poor or inappropriate designs off the streetscape. They can be autocratic, inflexible and untrained amateurs, and they can delay and otherwise inconvenience your project. Unfortunately, there's little you can do about it.

Obtaining your sign permit can take one week to a month, even without any hitches. Sign Permit fees vary from $20 to $40 or more from town to town, and Building Inspector's hours and review procedures also vary. Call ahead to find out these details.

Sign-GrafX can provide finished design proofs for your permit. We can do all the "leg-work" and paper-work for you if you need the help. We also offer consulting and representation before municipal boards and hearings.