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Sign Regulations, Processes and Permits


The following information outlines the City of Scottsdale's sign permit application process, as well as information on the requirements for various types of signs allowed for all uses within the city. 


sign permit Application Processing

Our goal is to process sign permit applications within 5 business days. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. The requirement for submittal of complete applications ensures applications are processed as expeditiously as possible.

The City of Scottsdale Current Planning Department will not process sign permit applications unless they include the following:

  • Sign Permit Application

  • Business license number
    (Signs must match the business name on file with the City of Scottsdale Tax & License Department, as well as an up-to-date address.  Contact Tax & License at 480-312-2400 to obtain or update a business license)

  • Landlord and/or homeowner association or property owners' association approval.

  • Site plan showing location of the business and
    sign(s) 

  • Elevation plan showing the rendering of the sign along with frontage dimensions of the business.

  • Color sign specifications (text, size, illumination, section detail, materials, etc.)

  • Footing & structural details for freestanding signs.

Resources

Application
Sign Permit Application
(PDF/101kb/2pp)

Fees
Plan Review & Permit Fees
(See "Miscellaneous Plans" & "Miscellaneous Bldg" Fee Sheets)

Other Resources
Sight Distance Triangles
(PDF/117kb/6pp)

Frequently Asked Questions?


Digital Submittals  

Digital Signs Submittal Requirements & Process

Sign Ordinance
Article VIII. Sign Ord. 


Once the sign permit application is approved and a permit is issued, the applicant will be contacted to pick-up the approved set of plans and the sign permit at the City of Scottsdale’s One Stop Shop. After the installation of the sign(s), a sign inspection will need to be scheduled. A city building inspector visits the site to ensure the sign(s) installed is in compliance with the approved plans. Information on our inspection process can be found at our Inspection Services website: http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/bldgresources/Inspections.asp.


Changes to Sign Ordinance

Case Number Description Planning Commission City Council
1-TA-2011 Text Amendment - Sign Ordinance 05-11-2011 6-28-2011


Regulations for Specific Sign Types

Master Sign Programs

Most multi-tenant commercial centers in Scottsdale are governed under a Master Sign Program (MSP). Master Sign Programs provide design compatibility for all signs within a particular center and regulate the size, color, illumination and placement of all permanent signs.

A request to approve a new master sign program, or modify an existing one (called “amendments”) can typically be processed through the city’s Staff Approval process, and take 2-3 weeks to review. For larger projects, Development Review Board approval may be required, which is a public hearing.

To obtain a copy of a city-approved Master Sign Program:

  • View Approved Master Sign Case Fact Sheets
    (Search for "MS" Case Type.  Cases approved after 1998 are online.)

  • Visit the City of Scottsdale's One Stop Shop at 7447 E. Indian School Road, Suite 105, Scottsdale, AZ  85251, to purchse a copy of a master sign program.

  • Contact Current Planning Staff at signs@scottsdaleaz.gov to request a digital copy of a master sign program.


Questions on how to obtain a sign permit or obtain specific sign code information?

Please contact Current Planning Staff at 480-312-7828 or e-mail: signs@scottsdaleaz.gov

Related Links

Additional code Resources