Email Scam (Phishing Attempt)

The FBI has warned that scammers are pretending to be city officials to request payments for planning and zoning permits. We're aware of phishing attempts following this scam in Madison.

Sign Permits

The City of Madison regulates signs to make sure they are safe, attractive, and effective. 

Only a select group of people may apply for a sign permit. You may apply if you are installing the sign as a licensed sign contractor, the property owner, or the tenant with permission from the owner. We cannot accept your application unless you are installing the sign. We do not work with permit expediters. 

Process Overview

  1. Discuss with City Zoning

    Business owners, please make sure you have our approval before you order any signs. Each zoning district has its own standards for sign placement, design, and operation. If you have questions about a specific type of sign, you can email us with details.

    Sign contractors, please refer to the sign code to see what it requires based on the district. You can also consult the person in your office that passed our licensing test. 

    Who to Contact

    Zoning at 608-266-4551 ext. 3. or signpermits@cityofmadison.com.  

    Where to Go

    The Zoning counter is open by appointment only.

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

  2. Apply for Permit

    This step is only for a licensed installer, the property owner, or the tenant with consent from the owner. "Permit expediters" may not apply on behalf of a licensed installer.

    You must 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 for the sign 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 to signpermits@cityofmadison.com. Any missing information will result in delays to your application. Please make sure you have a current certificate of insurance and bond on file to avoid delays.

  3. Application Review

    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.

  4. Permit Approval

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

Related Forms & Handouts

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