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We have been getting quite a few inquires about electrical signs including individual back-lit channel letters, cabinet signs and exterior blown neon. What concerns me is that some of the requests have come from business owners who are leasing their spaces and have not yet verified the requirements of their leasing agent. Neither have they checked with the local permit department to confirm the permit requirements for their preferred sign. Most cities have a very strict criterion for electrical signs and most require a permit for new electrical signs.
Replacing a sign face on an existing back-lit cabinet sign usually does not require a permit, however, some cities have restrictions on the type of signs a business can have in their local area. Using the city of Hayward as an example, new back-lit cabinet signs are not permitted, so if one exists and you are the new lessee at that space, the options include replacing the sign cabinet face. Making it larger or smaller would not be options, although replacing the cabinet with some other type of electrical sign, e.g. back-lit channel letters would be options requiring a permit.
Other challenges include making sure there is a power source within 6 feet of the electrical sign, and that the power source is readily accessible. SignWorks is currently working on an electrical sign relocation project and another for an Oakland based event business. We’ll be posting pictures soon. If you’re considering an electrical sign and need our guidance please call SignWorks at (510) 357-2000 or send an email to info@signworks.us.com. We’re happy to help.
Commercial Signage |Electrical Signs
SYNOPSIS: ______________________________________________________________________________________
We have been getting quite a few inquires about electrical signs including individual back-lit channel letters, cabinet signs and exterior blown neon. What
Answering top questions on illuminated sign options
BY: CHERYL ARCHER, SignWorks Inc.
______________________________________________________________________________________
We have been getting quite a few inquires about electrical signs including individual back-lit channel letters, cabinet signs and exterior blown neon. What concerns me is that some of the requests have come from business owners who are leasing their spaces and have not yet verified the requirements of their leasing agent. Neither have they checked with the local permit department to confirm the permit requirements for their preferred sign. Most cities have a very strict criterion for electrical signs and most require a permit for new electrical signs.
Replacing a sign face on an existing back-lit cabinet sign usually does not require a permit, however, some cities have restrictions on the type of signs a business can have in their local area. Using the city of Hayward as an example, new back-lit cabinet signs are not permitted, so if one exists and you are the new lessee at that space, the options include replacing the sign cabinet face. Making it larger or smaller would not be options, although replacing the cabinet with some other type of electrical sign, e.g. back-lit channel letters would be options requiring a permit.
Other challenges include making sure there is a power source within 6 feet of the electrical sign, and that the power source is readily accessible. SignWorks is currently working on an electrical sign relocation project and another for an Oakland based event business. We’ll be posting pictures soon. If you’re considering an electrical sign and need our guidance please call SignWorks at (510) 357-2000 or send an email to info@signworks.us.com. We’re happy to help.
