Sign Permits & Ordinances in Athens, GA

AKO Signs will make sure your new sign is legal & ready to install — with no hassle for you.

sign permits and ordinances - AKO Signs athens ga
sign permits athens ga

What are sign permits

Sign permits legally allow you to post your sign

When your business plans on developing new custom signs for your place of business, you are required to apply for all necessary sign permits and follow all local sign ordinances in Athens. This applies to mostly all outdoor signs in commercial locations.

While this process takes time and extra effort, don’t let it deter you from getting your new custom business signs. AKO Signs has over 30 years of experience as a sign company in Athens dealing with permits and ordinances.

Sign Permit requirements in Athens

When to get a sign permit

You should plan on obtaining a sign permit for each business sign you want to install or modify/repair. To avoid delays, block out time to properly research requirements and for the actual sign permit process. You may find out your custom sign doesn’t require a permit, but it’s better to be prepared beforehand. You can view the sign permit application for Athens-Clarke County here. You can read over the Athens-Clarke County sign ordinances here.

Why are permits required

Sign permits are necessary in order to ensure general quality control. Again every location differs in requirements, but generally permits keep signs from being unaesthetically pleasing — they will typically have to resemble other signs in the area. This usually involves specifications in the size of the signs in your area. Permits also ensure safety. You cannot have your sign in areas that will be a hindrance, especially to drivers. Electrical signs (or neon signs) will also need to be approved for brightness and color. Overly distracting electrical signage can be dangerous to drivers and annoying to local Athens residents.

How to Get a Sign Permit in Athens

Get a sign permit for your business sign

When you are ready to apply for sign permits, make sure you follow all of the required steps closely. Ensure you have properly researched the process you need to take for your area in Athens-Clarke County. Here is a general overview of the sign permit process you may encounter.

  1. Contact your areas zoning department and request a zoning review of your signage plans. Have your plans approved and then move on to the permit application process.
  2. The permit department will have you complete a sign permit application. Include all necessary drawings and proposed plans of your signs. You may need official approval or seals from the sign designer or architect.
  3. You may be required to show your occupancy permits.
  4. For electrical or illuminated signs, you will have to fill out extra forms for the permit.
  5. Finally, you will have to pay the required fee(s) for sign permits.

AKO Signs will Process your Permits

Contact AKO Signs if you need help with the sign permit process

If you have any questions regarding sign permits or local ordinances, please contact us today!

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AKO Signs of Athens for sign permits