A sign permit is required for new commercial signage and for certain changes to existing signs.
Sign requirements vary depending on the type, size, location, and design of the proposed sign. Some signs may require additional review as part of the permit process.
Existing nonconforming signs may be required to come into compliance when changes are made due to a new business, tenant, or property owner.
How to Apply
Apply for a sign permit through our Self Service Portal. You can upload required documents, track the status of your application, and make payments online.
Depending on the type of sign, you may be required to provide:
- A site plan showing the proposed sign location and applicable landscaping and lighting
- A recent land survey
- Scaled sign drawings showing dimensions, construction, height, illumination, lettering, and graphics
- Color and material samples for freestanding or monument signs
- Written authorization from the property owner
Aerial maps or GIS images, including Google Maps, Wauwatosa GIS, and Milwaukee County GIS, cannot be used in place of a required site plan or land survey.
Additional information or documents may be requested depending on the type and scope of the proposed signage.
Temporary Signs
Temporary signs, including commercial real estate and construction signs, require a permit.
Apply through our Self Service Portal and provide a photo or rendering of the proposed sign. Additional information may be requested depending on the type, size, and location of the sign.
Banners
Banners require a temporary sign permit and must meet the following requirements:
- Maximum size of 32 square feet
- Cannot be freestanding or illuminated
- Limited to one banner per street frontage at a time
- Permits are valid for up to 30 days
- A maximum of four banner permits may be issued per business each calendar year
- At least 30 days must pass between banner permits
Banner permits for special events may be extended with City approval.
Sandwich Board
Portable sandwich board signs may be placed within the public right-of-way with an annual permit and must meet the following requirements:
- One sign is permitted per business
- Signs may be double-sided and cannot exceed 6 square feet
- The sign must be located in front of the business it serves
- At least 4 feet of unobstructed space must remain available for pedestrian travel
- Off-premises signs are not permitted
- Signs must be brought inside when the business is closed
- Signs cannot create a pedestrian or traffic hazard
Businesses must also provide proof of liability insurance naming the City as an additional insured and complete a hold harmless agreement. Proof of insurance must be maintained throughout the permit period.
Permits must be renewed annually and are not transferable to another business.