Memphis Sign Permit Requirements by District

Land Use and Zoning Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee requires permits for most permanent and many temporary signs; rules vary by zoning district and sign type. This guide summarizes where to find the controlling municipal sign regulations, the typical approval steps, enforcement pathways, and practical action steps for applicants, owners, and contractors. Use the cited city ordinance for definitive standards and consult the Planning & Development office for district-specific interpretations and permit filings.[1]

Overview of District Rules

Sign size, height, illumination, and placement are governed by the city zoning regulations and the sign chapter of the Memphis Code; different commercial, industrial, and residential districts set different allowances. Where an applicant needs a variance or special exception, the local zoning board procedure applies.

  • Check district allowances for sign type and maximum area.
  • Building-mounted, freestanding, and temporary signs have distinct rules.
  • Some temporary sign permits have fixed duration limits.
District rules determine size and placement limits.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal sign regulations identify enforcement authority and procedures; however, specific monetary fines and escalation amounts are not specified on the cited ordinance page. Enforcement may include notices to comply, stop-work orders, removal orders, civil fines, and referral to municipal court.[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the enforcing office for current schedules.[1]
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence procedures are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or alter signs, stop-work directives, and court actions are listed as enforcement tools.
  • Enforcer and complaints: the City of Memphis Planning & Development Division and Code Enforcement handle inspections, compliance notices, and complaints; contact details are available from the city permit office.[2]
If you receive a notice, contact Planning & Development immediately to learn appeal deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The municipal pages identify that sign permits are processed through the city permit/inspections pathway; the specific permit form name, form number, and fee schedule are not specified on the ordinance page and should be obtained from the Planning & Development permit portal or permit counter.[1][2]

  • Application form: not specified on the cited ordinance page; request the sign permit application from the Planning & Development office.
  • Fees: not specified on the cited ordinance page; fee schedules are published by the permit office.
  • Submission: typically submitted to the city permit counter or online permit portal per Planning & Development instructions.[2]
Always confirm required attachments, such as site plans and electrical permits, before filing.

Common Violations

  • Unpermitted permanent or illuminated signs.
  • Exceeding area, height, or setback limits for the district.
  • Improper placement in rights-of-way or on utility poles.

Action Steps

  • Confirm district zoning and permitted sign types.
  • Obtain and complete the sign permit application from Planning & Development.[2]
  • Pay applicable fees as instructed by the permit office.
  • If cited, note appeal deadlines and file a review request per the notice directions.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for temporary banners?
Many temporary banners require a permit or meet size and duration limits; check district rules and the permit office for temporary sign criteria.
How long does sign permit review take?
Review times vary by application complexity and completeness; contact Planning & Development for current processing timelines.
Can I appeal a removal or fine?
Yes, appeals or reviews typically follow the city notice instructions; specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited ordinance page and should be requested from the enforcing office.

How-To

  1. Determine your zoning district and permitted sign types.
  2. Download or request the sign permit application from Planning & Development.
  3. Prepare required attachments: site plan, elevations, and electrical permit if illuminated.
  4. Submit the application and pay fees at the city permit counter or online portal.
  5. If denied or cited, file an appeal or request for review according to the notice instructions and keep documentation of repairs or removals.
Document everything and keep copies of submitted plans and receipts.

Key Takeaways

  • Most permanent signs require a permit and must meet district rules.
  • Contact Planning & Development early to confirm requirements and forms.[2]
  • Enforcement can include removal orders and fines; fee amounts are not specified on the sign ordinance page.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Memphis Code of Ordinances - Signs and Zoning
  2. [2] City of Memphis Planning & Development

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