An unpermitted sign installation can cause some unpleasant surprises. Texas’s cities usually expect business operators to request permission before erecting a sign. Rowlett is among them, where permits guarantee compliance of all signs with local codes for safety, limits on sizes, and local zoning.

Getting the proper permit upfront avoids fines, delays, and the risk of having to remove a brand-new sign.

Do you Always Require a Permit?

Whether or not you need a permit depends on a few key things.

• Type of sign:Wall signs, monument signs, pylon signs, and temporary banners all have varied needs.

• Location: Commercial locations, neighborhoods, and malls abide by separate laws of zoning.

• Size and location: Cities will usually limit how large a sign can be and how high it can be off the ground.

• Lighting: Internally lit or illuminated signs usually require an electrical permit, too.

Renting retail space from a mall or plaza can also mean submission to landlord approval before it can be reviewed by the city.

What’s Involved in the Permit Process

The application for a permit also involves multiple steps.

1. Complete a city application with details like sign type, size, materials, and method of installation.

2. Provide a site plan depicting where you will locate the sign on your parcel.

3. The city review will be done and can take several days or about two weeks, depending on how complicated it is.

4. Plan for inspections of features that will need electrical work or concrete footings.

Most Texas cities, including Rowlett, have an online permit portal. However, it still pays to understand what to upload and how to steer clear of back-and-forth hold-ups.

Mistakes That Can Slow Things Down

Paperwork errors are the biggest cause of slow approvals. Common problems include missing drawings, unclear measurements, or not following local size limits. Another issue is trying to install a sign first and then asking for a permit later. That almost always causes trouble and can cost more in the long run.

Also, it is easy to forget about the landlord’s rules for shared buildings. Their rules can be stricter than those of the city.

Let Us Do It for You

At SignSmiths of Texas, there’s no hassle when it comes to permits. We’re experienced at working with city offices throughout Texas and understand exactly what to do for Rowlett. Your permits are taken care of while you’re busy running your company.

We keep current on local sign codes, zoning regulations, and electrical codes so you don’t have to. From design to installation, we navigate the process and ensure your sign is code-approved.

Call SignSmiths of Texas today to get started.