Sign Permit Guide: How Business Sign Approvals Work in New Jersey and NYC
Most outdoor business signs need approval before they go up. This guide explains what New Jersey towns usually ask for, how New York City sign permits differ, and what you can prepare to keep your sign on schedule. Written from the permit packages we prepare for customers across New Jersey. Working in the city? See our NYC service area.
Does My Business Sign Need a Permit?
A quick sort. Your town or city has the final word, so always check your address.
- Wall signs, channel letters and light boxes
- Blade and projecting signs over the sidewalk
- Awnings with lettering, in many towns
- Any sign with lighting or power
- Window graphics over a set share of the glass
- Sidewalk A frames on public sidewalks
- Temporary banners and grand opening signs
- Construction site and real estate signs
- Lobby signs and dimensional letters
- Office, room and ADA signs
- Wayfinding and directories inside
- Your building may still have its own rules
How Sign Permits Differ in New Jersey and New York City
The basic idea is the same: the sign is reviewed before it goes up. Who reviews it and what they ask for is different.
| New Jersey | New York City | |
|---|---|---|
| Who reviews it | Your town zoning office, and often the construction office | NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) |
| What is checked | Sign size, placement, lighting and the town sign ordinance | Size, projection, lighting, structure and zoning |
| When a permit is needed | Most outdoor business signs; rules vary town by town | Signs over 6 square feet and any illuminated sign |
| Who can install | A sign company, with a licensed electrician for lit signs | Larger signs need a licensed sign hanger |
| Historic areas | Some towns have historic district reviews | Landmark buildings and districts also need LPC review |
| Landlord rules | Shopping centers often have their own sign criteria | Building owners often require approval too |
Sources: NYC DOB sign permit requirements and the NYC LPC signage guidebook. New Jersey rules are set by each municipality.
How a Sign Permit Usually Moves From Idea to Approval
Most of the work is in the drawings. The cleaner the package, the faster the review.
Survey and measure
We measure the storefront and note the wall, power and clearances.
Drawings and specs
Scaled drawings show the sign size, placement, materials and lighting.
Submit and answer
The package goes to the town or city, along with any landlord approval.
Build and install
Once approved, we build the sign and our crew installs it.
What to Gather Before You Apply for a Sign Permit
Most delays come from missing paperwork, not the sign itself.
- The property address and block and lot, if you have it.
- Photos of the building front and the spot for the sign.
- Storefront width, and the sign band size if there is one.
- Landlord or shopping center sign criteria and written approval.
- Your business name exactly as it will appear on the sign.
- Any existing signs that will stay or come down.
Not sure where to start? Our sign permit service prepares the drawings and walks the paperwork through with you.
Sign Permit FAQs
Straight answers to what business owners ask about sign approvals.
Do I need a permit for a business sign in New Jersey?
Usually, yes, for outdoor signs. Most New Jersey towns require zoning approval for business signs, and many also need a construction permit. Lit signs need an electrical connection by a licensed electrician.
How long does a sign permit take?
It depends on the town or city and how complete the package is. Some towns review quickly; others meet on a schedule. Plan the permit into your opening date and ask us early.
Do I need a permit for a sign inside my store?
Usually not from the town, as long as it is inside your space. Your landlord or building may still have rules.
When do I need a DOB sign permit in New York City?
The NYC Department of Buildings requires a permit for signs over 6 square feet and for any illuminated sign. Larger installs need a licensed sign hanger.
What if my building is a landmark?
In New York City, signs on landmark buildings or in historic districts also need Landmarks Preservation Commission review. Some New Jersey towns have historic district rules too.
Does my landlord have to approve my sign?
Often, yes. Shopping centers and many buildings have sign criteria covering size, color, lighting and mounting. Get them before the sign is designed.
Have a Technical Question?
Reach out to our product specialist. We will make sure you get the right help and guide you with our best knowledge, whether it is sizes, materials, colors, lighting or permits.