Outdoor Signs

Outdoor Signs

Building Permits are required in addition to signing permits for signs that are large or tall and therefore significantly impacted by lateral wind loads. Please call to verify the size and height of signs that are considered large or tall.

Electrical Permits are required in addition to signing permits for signs that are illuminated or otherwise electrified and where the sign requires its own electrical service connection. Electrical permit work shall be performed by a registered electrician.

Sign Permits are required for all permanent freestanding, wall-mounted, painted, projecting, awning, canopy, and marquee signs larger than 2 square feet, illuminated or non-illuminated. All outdoor signs shall be erected by a licensed Outdoor Advertiser (outdoor sign contractor). Exception: Business identification signs installed by the property owner or place of the business occupant (with permission of property owner) which:

  1. Are not electrified; and
  2. If free-standing, not more than 6 feet in height and not more than 25 square feet in area; or
  3. If wall mounted, not more than 15 feet above grade and not more than 32 square feet in area; or
  4. Are painted directly on a wall.

Awnings, Canopies, & Marquee Permits

Awning, Canopy, and Marquee Permits are required whenever awnings, canopies, or marquees extend into a City right-of-way. Permits are not issued until the clearance is received from the Community Development Department Zoning Section and the Public Works Department including the signing of a letter of agreement with stipulations.

Oversized Signs

A Building and Sign Permits are required for signs that may be significantly impacted by lateral wind loads. Please call to verify the size and height requirements.

Illuminated or Electrified Signs

An electrical permit is required in addition to a sign permit for signs that are illuminated or otherwise electrified and where a sign requires its own electrical service connection. Electrical permit work shall be performed by a registered electrician.

For a complete fee schedule return to the City of Rockford home page, and view the fee schedule.