21. What does “all permits required” mean on commercial sign notices?

When a city posts “all permits required,” it means you must get approval before installing a sign. This notice reminds contractors and property owners that work must follow local rules.

Most cities require a sign permit before installing exterior signs. The local Building Department reviews the project to make sure the sign follows the city’s sign code and safety rules.

During the review, officials usually check:

• sign size and placement

• the zoning district rules for the property

• safety of the sign structure

• electrical installations for illuminated signs

Once the permit is approved, the city issues permit issuance. After that, installation can begin.

22. How do you apply for a commercial sign permit in Texas?

Most Texas cities require a sign application before installing exterior signs. This application is usually submitted to the local Building Department.

Some cities also allow applicants to apply online through a city permit portal.

A typical application may include:

• completed sign application form

• elevation drawing showing sign location

• site plan showing placement on the property

• sign dimensions and square footage

• electrical layout for illuminated signs

• property owner approval

After submission, the city begins plans review. Officials check the project for code compliance and sign ordinance rules before approving the permit.

23. Do exterior signs require both a building permit and an electrical permit?

In many cases, yes. Exterior signs with lighting often require two permits.

A building permit reviews the physical sign structure. Officials check how the sign attaches to the building and if it meets safety standards.

An electrical permit reviews electrical installations used in illuminated signs.

Electrical review may include:

• LED channel letters

• digital display signs

• illuminated tenant signs

• internal wiring systems

If the sign includes electrical components, the work usually must be done by a licensed electrical contractor.

24. How does the zoning district affect commercial sign approvals?

The zoning district of a property affects what type of signage is allowed. Each zoning district has its own rules for sign size and placement.

Cities use these rules to make sure signs match the surrounding land use.

Zoning rules often control:

• maximum sign square footage

• number of tenant signs allowed

• building frontage used to calculate sign size

• lighting and illumination limits

• distance from the public right-of-way

If a sign is larger than the allowed size, the applicant may need zoning approval or a variance before the permit can move forward.

25. What factors determine the permit fee for a commercial sign?

The permit fee for a commercial sign depends on the size and type of sign. Cities usually calculate the cost based on the sign structure and review work required.

Several factors can affect the permit fee.

These include:

• total sign square footage

• electrical installations in the sign

• structural review of the sign structure

• inspection requirements

• number of tenant signs on the property

For multi-tenant retail centers, each tenant sign may require its own permit fee.

26. Does the property owner need to approve a sign permit application?

Yes, most cities require approval from the property owner before a sign permit is issued.

This step confirms that the property owner allows the sign to be installed on the building.

The approval is usually submitted with the sign application.

Cities may require:

• a signed owner consent letter

• the property address or parcel ID

• confirmation of the building frontage where the sign will be installed

If this approval is missing, the Building Department may hold the permit until the documents are submitted.