We are often asked by customers, even those pulling their own permits or having their contractor do so, to manage the permit process for them. For SignWorks this means providing permit drawings for a variety of different municipalities. While this may appear to be fairly simple, sometimes it isn’t. Often the rules relative to signage are spelled out at each cities website, yet many of the details and interpretations really are not known until one gets to the permit counter. The subtleties of what has been written down, how it has been interpreted by the counter clerk, and other safety considerations relating to how the proposed signage will be affixed to the building, will all play a part in the permit approval process.
Many cities will have an over-the-counter approval process for simply non electrical signs. However, even a simply formed plastic lettering logo sign, if being mounted high enough on the side of a building, may trigger a concern and cause a simplified process to become more cumbersome. Sometimes, especially with fire safety signs and evacuation maps, the permit counter staff will be reluctant to sign off on permits without being assured that the Fire Department has already signed off on the related signage.
When you’re working on new building signage or renovations with a fire safety or building signage permit component, be sure to give SignWorks a call at (510) 357-2000 and we will gladly supply or expertise.