Most permanent signs erected in the city of Seattle are regulated by the Seattle Sign Code (Seattle Land Use Code Ch. 23.55). A sign permit is required when a sign is erected, re-erected, constructed, painted, posted, applied, altered, structurally revised or repaired if it is visible or intended to be visible from the public right-of-way, except when exempted by the Seattle Building Code.
An awning permit is required when an awning is erected, constructed, altered or is structurally revised including the recovering of an existing awning with new fabric.
Electrical signs must be installed by a licensed and bonded electrical contractor, unless installed by the business owner. Plans are required for all sign and awning permit applications. Drawings must be on 11" x 17" or larger paper.
The applicant must supply the following information:
- Applicant information
- Work site address
- Three sets of drawings
- Description of work to be performed
- Square footage of sign or graphics/value of awning work
- Business name, contact name and telephone number
- Installer information, including state license number
- Street use permit number, if applicable
- Department of Neighborhoods approval number, if applicable n DPD map page
Resources
Besides the Seattle Sign Code (Seattle Land Use Code Ch. 23.55), DPD offers the following resources:
- "Seattle's Sign Regulations," a handbook consolidating code and procedural regulations for sign installation in Seattle (Download pages 1-75, 83-115).
- DPD's Legal Billboards Database provides location, photo and details on all legal billboards installed in Seattle.
- Information about public notice signs and land use notices is available on DPD's Notices website.
Fees
There is a basic fee for signs for the first 100 square feet, plus an additional amount per square foot over that size. Awning fees are based on the development fee index.
Specific questions regarding signs, awnings and billboards should be directed to DPD’s sign inspector at (206) 684-8419. Download the forms required to obtain these permits at our Over-the-Counter forms website.
Sept. 27, 2011
