Sign Permits

If you want to erect a sign or banner, contact Zoning staff before ordering it. Each zoning district has its own standards for the number, size, height, location, type, illumination, and other aspects related to sign placement, design, and operation. Zoning staff can help you determine what is allowed at your site.

Who to Contact

Zoning at Building Inspection: (608) 266-4551, ext. 3. or zoning@cityofmadison.com. 

Where to Go

The Zoning counter is open by appointment only.

215 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd LL 017
Madison, WI 53703

To apply you must be a licensed sign contractor, the property owner, or the tenant with permission from the owner. 

• Sign Permit Application
• Comprehensive Design Review Packet

Make sure to include the following with your Sign Permit Application:

• Detailed drawings in full color of the proposed sign.
• Building elevation drawing showing the:
  • Sign and all details/dimensions of the sign
  • Signable area
  • Tenant space
• Type of material being used and all dimensions of supports and footings.
• For awning, projecting, and banner signs only: clearance above ground.
• For projecting signs: distance of projection from building face (6’ max) and distance of sign projecting into the right-of-
  way (24” max).
• Type of lighting or illumination and method.
• Include a night view for internally illuminated signs that appear to have light-colored copy on a dark or non-illuminated
  background.
• If the sign will be attached to a building, show the building roofline in relation to the wall on which the sign will be
  mounted.
• Pictures of any existing signs (with tag/permit #’s if possible).
• A site plan showing the size and location of existing signs, as well as showing the location of new or relocated sign.
• Acknowledgement from the property owner to erect the sign.

Email your application packet to us. Any missing information will result in delays to your application.

Zoning staff and, if necessary, Urban Design or Landmarks Commission will review the application. Sign applications typically take two to three weeks. Missing or incorrect information will delay your permit.

If staff approves your sign permit, we will contact you with the fee information.