The Sign Code, which is intended to prevent dangers associated with visual clutter along rights-of-way and encourage signage that preserves the character of our historic city, regulates all signage in St. Augustine and requires that commercial signage be permitted through the Planning and Building Department.
Before designing signage, it's best to determine what types, sizes, and numbers of signs are allowed in your sign zone. You can utilize the Sign Zone Map (PDF) to determine your sign zone and then use the Sign Code to determine allowable signage. Be aware that areas of the City along King Street, San Marco Avenue, and Anastasia Boulevard are also governed by the Design Standards for Entry Corridors (DSEC), and areas in Historic Preservation Districts are governed by the Architectural Guidelines for Historic Preservation (AGHP). The AGHP may require signage to match certain pre-approved colors/schemes, and utilize only pre-approved fonts and building materials.
A sign permit for installation of signage can only be issued for a property if an active Local Business Tax Receipt (LBTR) for the related business is on file with city staff. Click here to learn how to obtain a LBTR Business Tax Receipt Required Business Tax Receipt Required Business Tax Receipt Required .
Once you have a design for your signage with details regarding location on the property and/or building, dimensions, and total area, you can submit a sign permit application. Here is a step by step guide (PDF) to submit a permit in the new portal. When your permit application is submitted, staff will review it. You will receive an e-mail notifying you when your permit is ready for payment and issuance or providing feedback on changes that may be necessary for staff to approve the signage. In some cases, signage may require approval from the Historic Architectural Review Board or Corridor Review Committee. Once you have received your issued permit, the signage may be installed.
For signage related to short-term events such as sales or grand openings, you may submit a temporary sign permit application. Temporary signage is approved by Planning and Building Department staff for a limited time specified by the Sign Code (generally 1 week). Failure to remove the signage after expiration of the permit may result in Code Enforcement action.
Installing signage without a permit may result in Code Enforcement action. Sign Permit Applications that have been initiated as a result of formal Code Enforcement action may be subject to doubled permit fees per Resolution 2017-42 which establishes the fee schedule for the Planning and Building Department..
Questions and any additional documents related to sign permit applications can be e-mailed to the Planning and Building Clerk.