Navigating the Sign Permitting Process in McDonough and Henry County GA February 5, 2018 Your outdoor signage almost always requires sign permits – including some types of temporary signs depending on location. Also, in most areas, a sign permit is needed for window graphics,  door graphics and even the graphics on awnings.  These rules and regulations for permits are often  specific to the location’s zoning – or could even be further restricted by special guidelines and regulations set up for Historical Districts. One of our important roles is to guide our clients and customers through the maze of permitting process – beginning back at the planning and design phase of your sign or signage project.  The best way to avoid “unexpected surprises” and schedule delays for your project is to have the sign company you are working with take the lead in handling the local permitting process for you. Before we complete the design of any type of sign, we work with clients to understand its specific location and method of mounting – whether it is a freestanding or building mounted sign.  Depending on the location and size of the business property, the allowable size for your permitted sign may be less than initially anticipated.  We can deal with that in our graphic and sign design process to make sure you are getting the maximum visibility and best appearance for the sign size available. Here are some basic things to consider in your sign project plan and permitting:

1. Know the rules and regulations:

As stated earlier, every city / county has different rules and ordinances governing them on sign applications and sign permits. Things you see other people doing with their signs may or may not apply to your specific location.

2. Make sure the property owners are on board:

Owners of the property will often have their restrictions and rules that need to be adhered to also. Before mapping out your desired signage, check if that particular one is allowed in your business area, shopping center, etc.  Written approval of either the property owner or landlord is typically required.

3. Check out the permit application requirements:

Most often, there are drawings, sign layouts and specific sign information that must be submitted with the application. Again, these requirements vary by city or county.

4. Consider the time factor:

Remember that time is required to do enough planning and initial design to complete the permit application.  Then, there is approval time required after the permit is applied for.  Make sure you consider that - and get us started with you sooner rather than later. 5. Hire a Professional To avoid mistakes, delays and stress – it’s best to hire a professional sign company to help you manage and successfully complete the whole permitting process. If you are considering any new or replacement signage visible from the exterior - then the process of obtaining a Sign Permit will likely be a part of that project.