Checklist
NYC sign permit checklist
A printable, step-by-step pre-installation checklist for New York City sign permits. Tick every box before fabrication so nothing delays your sign-off — from zoning survey to final DOB approval.
1. Site & zoning
- Measure the facade: width, height, and available mounting area
- Confirm the zoning district (commercial, manufacturing, residential)
- Check special district rules (MiD, SoHo NoLIta, waterfront, etc.)
- Look up landmark or historic district status on the LPC map
- Review the lease for landlord sign criteria and COI requirements
- Photograph the install location from multiple angles
2. Design & drawings
- Finalize sign dimensions, materials, and finishes
- Specify illumination type (LED, halo-lit, non-illuminated)
- Detail the mounting method and structural attachments
- Include electrical and wiring details for illuminated signs
- Have drawings signed and sealed by a registered design professional
- Confirm the sign area and projection meet zoning limits
3. Landmark review (LPC)
- Confirm the property is in a landmark district or is a landmark
- Submit design to LPC for a certificate of no effect or appropriateness
- Receive LPC approval before filing with DOB
- Keep the LPC approval letter with your permit records
4. DOB filing
- Create a DOB NOW: Build sign work permit application
- Upload signed and sealed drawings and supporting documents
- Pay the required DOB filing fees
- Track application status and respond to plan examiner comments
- Receive the approved sign permit before any fabrication
5. Fabrication & installation
- Fabricate the sign to match the approved drawings exactly
- Schedule a licensed, insured installation crew
- Arrange lift equipment, scaffolding, or swing-stage as needed
- Coordinate building access and any sidewalk permit (DOT)
- Install the sign per the approved mounting method
6. Inspections & sign-off
- Schedule any required electrical or structural inspections
- Confirm the installed sign matches the approved plans
- Request and receive the final DOB sign-off
- Keep the permit and sign-off paperwork on file
- Photograph the completed installation for records
Want KBC Signs to run this checklist for you?
We handle the survey, drawings, LPC and DOB filing, fabrication, and licensed installation — so every box on this list is checked by one team.
Request a QuoteCite this checklist
KBC Signs maintains this NYC sign permit checklist as a free reference for businesses, architects, and property managers. You are welcome to link to it: NYC Sign Permit Checklist. A branded PDF version is free to download and share with your team, clients, or tenants: NYC Sign Permit Checklist (PDF).