Savannah Sign Permit, Size & Illumination Ordinance
This guide explains how Savannah, Georgia regulates sign permits, dimensional limits and illumination standards under local law. It summarizes who issues permits, what size and lighting rules commonly apply, how enforcement works, and practical steps to apply, appeal, or report noncompliant signs. Use the official code and permit center links below to confirm requirements for your property and to download application forms.[1]
Overview of Sign Standards
Savannah regulates signs by type (wall, freestanding, awning, temporary) and by zoning district. Typical controls include maximum sign area, height limits, placement relative to property lines, and rules on illumination or animated displays. Confirm exact measurements and definitions in the city code and permit guidance.[1]
Permit Requirements
Most permanent and many temporary signs require a permit before installation. Permit review checks compliance with size, setback, structural safety and illumination rules. Projects that alter building facades or involve electrical work usually need building or electrical permits in addition to the sign permit.[2]
- Permit application and drawings are typically required.
- Fees vary by permit type; see the permit center for current fee schedules.
- Electrical permits required for illuminated signs.
Applications & Forms
The city publishes sign permit application forms and submittal checklists at the Permit Center; if a dedicated sign form is not shown, follow the general sign permit instructions on the permit page.[2]
Size, Height and Illumination Rules
Exact dimensional and illumination standards depend on sign type and zoning district. Typical controls include maximum sign area per frontage, maximum height for freestanding signs, and limits on brightness, flashing, or animation. For precise numeric limits and definitions, refer to the city code and the planning/permit guidance.[1]
- Size limits are frequently expressed as square footage per linear foot of frontage or a fixed maximum square footage.
- Height limits apply to pole and monument signs; wall signs are limited by building elevation and setback rules.
- Illumination rules commonly ban flashing lights and require shielded fixtures to avoid glare.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is handled by city inspections or code enforcement; violations may trigger notices, orders to remove or alter signs, and monetary fines. Where the code lists specific penalties or escalation, cite the ordinance; if the cited page does not list amounts, it is noted below.
- Enforcer: City Code Enforcement and Permitting/Inspections divisions handle inspections and compliance. Contact details are on the city permit and code enforcement pages.[3]
- Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or alter signs, stop-work orders, and court action may be used; specific remedies are set out in the city code.
- Appeals and review: the code or administrative procedures describe appeal routes and any time limits; if not listed on the cited page, the time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
Sign permit application names, numbers, fees and submission methods are published at the Permit Center; if a named form or fee is not visible on the official permit page, it is not specified on the cited page.[2]
Common Violations
- Installing a sign without a permit.
- Exceeding maximum sign area or height.
- Unshielded or flashing illumination that creates glare or a traffic hazard.
Action Steps
- Check zoning and sign standards in the city code before designing a sign.[1]
- Prepare drawings and an electrical plan if the sign is illuminated; submit via the Permit Center.[2]
- If you receive a notice, follow the corrective order and contact Code Enforcement for appeal information.[3]
FAQ
- Do all business signs need a permit?
- Many permanent and some temporary signs require permits; confirm your sign type and zone on the city permit page and code.[2]
- Are illuminated signs allowed?
- Illuminated signs are allowed subject to electrical permits and shielding/brightness rules; check both the sign rules and electrical permit requirements.[2]
- How do I report an unpermitted sign?
- Report unpermitted or unsafe signs to City Code Enforcement or the Permit Center using the contact pages.[3]
How-To
- Confirm your property's zoning and the sign types allowed by consulting the city code and zoning maps.[1]
- Prepare scaled drawings showing sign area, height, location, materials, and illumination details.
- Submit the sign permit application, drawings, and electrical permit (if applicable) via the Permit Center website.[2]
- Schedule inspections as required after installation and comply with any corrective orders.
- If you receive a violation, follow the notice instructions and timely file an appeal if appropriate; contact Code Enforcement for procedures.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Most permanent signs require a permit and may need electrical permits if lit.
- Size and illumination limits depend on sign type and zoning—confirm in the city code.
- Enforcement can include removal orders and fines; respond quickly to notices.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Savannah Code of Ordinances - official sign regulations
- City of Savannah Permit Center - applications and fee schedules
- City of Savannah Code Enforcement - report complaints and contact