Sign Permits

When is a Sign Permit Neccesary?

A sign permit for a permanent sign is required before any exterior sign, as defined by the Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance, may be erected in the county. This requirement applies to all types of signs, including free standing, wall-mounted, and marquee signs. Illuminated signs require both sign and electrical permits.

What is the Application Process?

Sign permit applications are reviewed by DPS zoning staff; this review takes approximately ten days. After staff approval, a sign permit is issued along with a sign tag that is to be attached to the sign itself. The following information is necessary to process the permit application:

• size (area) and dimension of the sign
• location of the sign on the property or building (site plan required)
• copy of the sign text
• photographs of the property indicating where the sign is to be located.

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What are the Permit Fees?

The total fee for each sign located in DPS zones is $280.50. This includes a permit fee of $255.00 and a 10% automation fee of $25.50.

The total fee for each sign located in MNCPPC zones is $451.00. This includes a permit fee of $410.00 and a 10% automation fee of $41.00.

A $165.00 electrical permit fee is required for illuminated signs.  This includes a permit fee of $150.00 plus a 10% automation fee of $15.00.

When processing two (2) or more signs requiring electrical permits a cost of $99.00 per sign is required. This includes a permit fee of $90.00 plus a 10% automation fee of $9.00.

How Long is a Sign Permit Vaild?

A sign permit for a permanent sign is valid for the life of the sign, if the sign remains in location approved with the permit