City skyline over Lake Monona, featuring the Wisconsin State Capitol and Monona Terrace. Several construction cranes are visible.
Building Inspection

Sign Code Update

Sign listing services outside The Atrium

The City of Madison is updating its sign code, which is found in Chapter 31 of the Madison General Ordinances. The sign code regulates the location, size, and types of signs allowed throughout Madison. 

The sign code was last comprehensively updated in 2009.

Goals for the Project

  • Simplification and Updates

    • Streamline sign application, review, and permitting processes
    • Simplify the sign code so it can be more easily understood and used by customers (sign contractors, business owners, and property owners) and staff
    • Allow signs that promote effective identification of establishments within the community 
    • Identify any outdated regulations
    • Evaluate policies and procedures for Comprehensive Design Review (CDRs) to reduce the need for CDRs
    • Create process to allow administrative approvals with specific criteria without Urban Design Commission (UDC) approval
    • Make legal updates and maintain constitutionality
    • Align sign code with Urban Design District (UDD) and Landmarks requirements

  • Aesthetics and Best Practices

    • Preserve high standards for design
    • Consider sustainability
    • Reduce sign clutter
    • Require more human-scaled signage
    • Protect and maintain safety

Additional Information

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