Permits

The City of Houston has several signage regulations that you need to follow.

If you run a business in Houston, you may need to be aware that Houston’s laws are fairly stringent. Before erecting signs, banners, or flags, it is important to understand the local ordinances. Here are some of the guidelines you need to know for your outdoor signs:

You Need a Permit to Install Houston Outdoor Signage

The City of Houston Sign Administration is well known for its strict enforcement of sign codes. If you install signs that don’t follow the rules, you may face legal issues like fines and may need to replace the sign on your own dime. 

One thing to note is that you have to have a permit before installing a new sign. The permit also needs to be valid and unexpired. If you don’t have a permit, then the Houston Sign Administration may make you remove the signs at your expense.

It’s also important to note that the Sign Administration only issues permits to authorized Houston sign companies. This helps ensure that professionals are taking care of work such as installation. Working with a local sign company like East Signs Houston also means that you benefit from our professionals’ expertise with local sign codes.

Logo on Buildings Count as Signs

In Houston, any structural element with a picture, trademark, logo, or text referring to a business, organization, or line of products is considered a sign. So, practically any type of Houston outdoor signage is subject to Houston sign codes, no matter the design, material, or placement.

You are Limited to 5 On-Premises Signs Outside Your Building

You are only allowed to have five signs on your property as a business owner. This is applicable regardless of the size of your business or property.

However, you can use a combination of different types of Houston outdoor signage to maximize their impact. For instance, you might include one ground sign near the frontage, a taller sign like a pylon or marquee sign, as well as signs on the exterior walls of your building.

Generally, you’re only allowed one ground sign near the frontage. However, there are exceptions. For instance, if the frontage of your business extends over 350 feet, you are allowed to place two signs there as long as there is a minimum of 350 feet between them.

Roof Signs Aren't Allowed

Any signage erected on or above the roofline is prohibited per Houston’s sign ordinance. Additionally, any signs that are attached to the top of a canopy or an awning are prohibited.

Height Restrictions for Houston Outdoor Signage

In addition to restrictions that apply to the whole city, Houston has varied ordinances for certain streets. The city administration, for instance, will permit 12-foot signs in certain locations but 42-foot ones in others. You can speak with our specialists to understand signage height restrictions for your specific location.

A master plan created by the City of Houston Transportation Group identifies whether streets are major thoroughfares, collector streets, or local streets. The plan also identifies historical and scenic districts. Each of these have different sign codes that apply to your Houston outdoor signage. Our experienced signage technicians can help you understand the specifics that apply to your business.

You Need a Current Certificate of Occupancy for a Sign Permit

Verify that you have a current certificate of occupancy for your business to get a sign permit. Officials will typically compare the sign’s business name to the name on the sign permit paperwork. You can’t place a company’s name on outdoor signs for a building if the company isn’t inhabiting it in an official capacity. So, before you start designing your new sign, check that your certificate of occupancy is current and valid.

You Will Need a Licensed Sign Installer

The City of Houston requires a licensed sign installer to mount your signs. They must also have the proper insurance and permits to do so. This is to ensure safety during and after signage installation. So, verify you’re working with a sign company that is licensed and insured.

Outdoor Signage on Glass Windows

If you place Houston outdoor signage on your building’s windows, then you don’t generally need a permit. However, there are still some rules that apply. 

For instance, window signs can’t interfere with operating the window if it’s above the first story. This is likely for safety reasons. 

It’s also important to follow all other sign code restrictions for things like size for any window signs. 

Permit Renewal

Sign permits expire within 180 days. So, it’s important to make sure the timing is right to complete your sign before the permit expires. If the permit does expire, then you can extend the permit for another 180 days, but there is a charge for approximately half of the original fee to do so. Your sign company can manage this process for you to prevent additional fees.. 

Signs on Public Rights-of-Way

It’s illegal to place a sign on public property without express permission. This includes public streets, sidewalks, curbs, right-of-ways, and public buildings. Public property that is leased for private commercial use is not covered by this provision. This law authorizes the removal of any illegal signs discovered in the public right-of-way.

Get All Your Houston Outdoor Signage Needs Handled By East Signs

It can be overwhelming to look at Houston sign codes and try to ensure your Houston outdoor signage fits all the rules. However, with East Signs Houston, you receive more than just a professionally designed and made sign for your company, you also get expert assistance with all the related legalities.

Our experts at East Signs can assist you with all your signage needs. We are here to make sure everything goes as planned for your Houston custom signs, from surveying the sign to completing installation. As a top sign company in Greater Houston, we guarantee not only that your signs will comply with all sign codes, but also that you will be completely satisfied with your business signs.

Our family-owned and operated sign company designs and manufactures all forms of signs with a robust reputation for excellence and quality. Whether you are opening a new business or revamping your current location, reach out to us to get a free quote for your Houston outdoor signage needs.