How to Check Local Codes Before Applying for a Sign Permit
When planning a new sign, the most important step before applying for a permit is checking local zoning and sign codes. Cities and townships each have their own rules, and overlooking them can cause costly delays.
1. Start with a Google Search
Use this format:
[Full Property Address] + “Sign Permit” or “Zoning Map”
This often leads you to:
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The city or township’s official website
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A zoning map viewer or permit portal
⚠️ Clue: If your search result takes you to a township website, it usually means the property is in the township’s jurisdiction, not the city.
2. Identify the Permitting Authority
Sign regulations vary depending on who has jurisdiction — city vs. township.
To confirm:
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Use jurisdiction boundary tools, or
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Contact the City Building/Planning Department and the Township Zoning Office directly.
📞 If unclear, call both and ask who governs the property.
3. Use the County GIS or Zoning Map Viewer
Most counties provide an online GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping tool. Enter the property address to view:
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Zoning layer (e.g., C-2 Commercial)
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Parcel number
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Jurisdiction (city or township)
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Overlay districts (Historic, Highway Corridor, etc.)
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Right-of-Way (ROW) information
🔍 Look for zoning options like:
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Base zoning (e.g., C-2 Commercial)
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Overlay zones (Historic, Highway Corridor)
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Future land use
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Parcel boundaries
4. Confirm Details with the Planning Department
If the GIS tool is missing, outdated, or unclear, call the planning department directly and ask:
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“Can you confirm the zoning designation for [address]?”
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“What are the sign regulations for this zoning?”
Be sure to ask about:
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Maximum sign size (sq. ft.)
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Maximum sign height from grade
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Setback rules from property lines or ROWs
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Electronic Message Center (EMC) rules, including size, brightness, and timing
5. Why Existing & Proposed Sign Sizes Matter
Before applying, gather these two key details:
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The size of the existing sign on the property
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The size of the proposed sign you want to install
Pairing this information with the zoning rules gives you a clear picture of what will be allowed.
✅ Example: If zoning allows a maximum of 80 sq. ft. but the existing structure already has 120 sq. ft., you may be required to reduce signage before adding an EMC.
6. Final Review Checklist
Before submitting your permit application, make sure you know:
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Zoning designation
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Maximum sign area and height allowed
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Setback requirements
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EMC regulations (if digital sign planned)
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Total signage already on the property vs. proposed signage
Takeaway
Doing this research before filing your application saves time, money, and frustration. Knowing both the current signage size and your planned sign size — and comparing them to zoning laws — will help you understand exactly what is possible.
👉 Access zoning and permit resources here: [Permits and Installation]