Commercial Sign

Installation of a permanent advertising sign requires a permit, which may include electrical work. The sign can be wall-mounted, pole-mounted, or a monument. You can submit a single permit application for all building-mounted signs on an independent building. However, each pole or monument sign must have its own separate permit.

Normal maintenance of existing permitted signs, as defined by the Florida Building Code, does not require a permit or inspection. This includes activities such as painting or repairs that do not alter the sign's size or height. However, removal and reinstallation of a sign face are not considered normal maintenance and will require a sign permit. Additionally, replacing vinyl sign coverings or vinyl lettering without making structural alterations to the sign is permitted.

Required Forms & Documents

All documentation: If applying in person, 2 original signed/sealed sets required; if applying online, 1 original signed/sealed set required

• Application for a Sign Permit
• Notice of Commencement (1 copy signed and recorded): Any improvement for which the direct contract price is greater than $5,000. Must be submitted prior to scheduling the first inspection.
• Drawings/Plans/Engineering: Engineered drawings or site-specific specifications.
  • Ground signs and pole signs that are more than 10 feet in height, or more than 40 sq. ft. in total aggregate area will need signed/sealed engineering plans.
  • Signs of smaller size will not require signed/sealed plans from an engineer; however, all load information, code compliance, and construction details (including all fasteners) must be included in the submittal. 
  • Must convey the full extent of proposed work – legible and of sufficient clarity. If applying for a permit in person, plans must be wet or embossed with a signature. If applying for a permit online, plans must be digitally signed and sealed with a third-party verification (see User Information).
• Site Plan

Fees

• Building Flat: $90
• Surcharge: $4

• Zoning Review: $22

Note: Payments by check should be made payable to either "CCBCC" or Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners. Payments are also accepted by Mastercard or Visa credit or debit cards.

Eligible Licenses for This Permit

• Owner-Builder: Not more than $75,000 in cost. Must not rent or sell the property within one (1) year of completion of the permit.
• Certified Building: Must subcontract any electric work to a licensed electrical contractor
• Certified General: Must subcontract any electric work to a licensed electrical contractor
• Certified Sign Electrical
• Registered Building: Must subcontract any electric work to a licensed electrical contractor
• Registered General: Must subcontract any electric work to a licensed electrical contractor
• Registered Sign Electrical
• Local Sign Non-Electrical: Only if no electrical work is performed

Department Reviews

• Building: A review of the proposed work to ensure that the structure will be in compliance with the applicable structural requirements of the Florida Building Code. This also includes wind loads and flood loads.
• Electrical (if applicable): Ensure that the proposed structure or component will comply with the electrical provisions of the National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Fire: Ensure that the proposed structure or component will comply with the National Fire Prevention Code (NFPA)
• Zoning: A review the proposed work for compliance with the land development regulations. This includes zoning, setbacks and any other regulations pertaining to the location and type of structure.

Inspections