Ann Arbor Sign Permit Rules - Size & A-Frames
In Ann Arbor, Michigan, signs and A-frame sidewalk signs are regulated by the city rather than by private property owners alone; understanding permit, size and placement rules helps businesses and residents stay compliant. This guide explains where to find the official regulations, how to apply for a sign permit, common restrictions for A-frame and temporary signs, enforcement channels, and practical steps for appeals and compliance.
Overview of Sign Regulations
The primary local rules for signs are published in the City of Ann Arbor municipal code and administered by city Planning and Building/Building Services. Consult the municipal code for the full legal text and the Building/Planning pages for permit procedures and forms City code - Signs[1], Building Services - Sign permits[2], and the Planning Department pages for sign design and placement guidance Planning - Signs[3].
Common rules affecting size and A-frame signs
- Permits: many permanent signs require a permit; temporary and A-frame sign rules depend on zone and whether the sign is in the public right-of-way.
- Placement and clearance: sidewalks and public rights-of-way often need minimum pedestrian clearances; check the Planning/Building pages.
- Prohibited locations: signs on trees, utility poles, or blocking visibility at intersections are commonly prohibited.
- Design standards: illumination, attachment, and maintenance standards appear in the municipal code.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is handled by city enforcement divisions within Planning/Building and code compliance; the municipal code describes violations and remedial authority. Specific fine amounts are not consistently listed on the permit or department pages and are not specified on the cited page(s). See the municipal code and Building Services for enforcement procedures and complaint submission.
- Typical remedies: order to remove or alter the sign, notice to comply, administrative action, and potential referral to municipal court.
- Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation: the code may allow continued/recurring violation penalties or daily fines, but specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
- Enforcer and complaints: contact Building Services or Planning/Code Compliance to report noncompliant signs; see the Help and Support section for links and contacts.
- Appeals and review: appeal routes generally follow permit-review procedures and zoning appeal channels; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
Applications & Forms
- Sign Permit Application: the city publishes an official sign permit form; check Building Services for the current PDF or online application.
Form name or number: not specified on the cited page. - Fees: permit fees vary by sign type and are listed by Building Services when available; specific amounts are not specified on the cited page.
- Submission: submit plans and application to Building Services per the instructions on the official sign permit page.
Action steps to get a sign permit
- Step 1: Review the municipal sign regulations and zone-specific rules in the city code and Planning guidance City code - Signs[1].
- Step 2: Prepare a site plan and sign drawings showing dimensions, materials, mounting, and clearance from sidewalks and curbs.
- Step 3: Complete and submit the Sign Permit Application to Building Services, attaching required drawings and the fee as instructed Building Services - Sign permits[2].
- Step 4: Wait for plan review and permit issuance; address any review comments and obtain permit before installation.
- Step 5: If cited for a violation, follow the compliance notice and contact the issuing department for appeal instructions.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit for an A-frame sign on the sidewalk?
- It depends on location, zone, and whether the sign encroaches into the public right-of-way; consult the municipal code and Building Services guidance for sidewalk/A-frame rules Planning - Signs[3].
- What size limits apply to temporary or A-frame signs?
- Size limits and clearance requirements are set in the municipal code and may vary by zone; exact numeric limits are not specified on the cited page.
- How do I report an illegal or hazardous sign?
- Contact the city’s Building Services or Code Compliance division through the official contact/complaint page; preservation of photos and location details helps enforcement.
How-To
- Check the municipal code and Planning guidance for your zoning and type of sign.
- Measure and design the sign to meet clearance and size guidance; prepare drawings and a site plan.
- Download or request the official Sign Permit Application from Building Services and complete all required sections.
- Submit the form, drawings, and fee to Building Services and respond to review comments.
- Receive the permit, install the sign per approved plans, and keep the permit available on site.
Key Takeaways
- Always check the municipal code and Building Services before installing signs.
- Sidewalk/A-frame signs commonly require clearance for pedestrians and may need approval.
- Contact Building Services or Planning for permits, complaints, and appeal instructions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Building Services - City of Ann Arbor
- Planning Department - City of Ann Arbor
- Municipal Code - City of Ann Arbor (Municode)
- City contact and departments directory