All signs require Zoning approval. Business signage installation typically also requires a Building Permit. However, Building Permits may not be needed for painted signs or sign refacings.
Please review the signage chapter of the Planning Code (OMC 17.104) to determine what is permitted in your zone. Please be sure to review the Commercial Design Review Guidelines(PDF, 4MB) for commercial signage.
To determine your zone and to measure your parcel frontage to determine maximum signage per property, view the City’s online Zoning Map. 20 sq ft per tenant is automatically allowed as a minimum; includes all commercial tenants.
EXEMPTIONS FROM DESIGN REVIEW
Signs that fall under any of the following criteria are exempt from Design Review:
Changes to sign faces
Temporary signs such as Realty Signs, Development Signs, holiday decorations, and displays behind a display window. Changing the text or pictures on an existing sign
Following a Master Signage Program: Putting up a new sign that follows a pre-approved plan (Master Signage Program) for all the signs on a property