Murfreesboro Historic District Sign Regulations

Signs and Advertising Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Murfreesboro, Tennessee protects the look and character of its designated historic districts by regulating signs, materials, placement, and illumination. Property owners and businesses in these districts must follow both the city sign code and the design standards administered by the Historic Preservation Commission and the Planning Department. This guide summarizes applicable rules, permit paths, enforcement, and practical steps to comply when installing, changing, or removing signs in Murfreesboro historic districts. It is current as of February 2026 and points to the controlling municipal code and local department pages for official text and forms.[1]

Signs in Historic Districts

Historic district rules typically limit size, materials, mounting methods, and lighting to protect historic fabric and streetscapes. Murfreesboro requires review of sign design and placement in many historic areas; this review may be through a Certificate of Appropriateness or a sign permit administered by city planning and building staff. For specifics on permitted types and any design standards, consult the city code and the Historic Preservation Commission guidance.[2]

Obtain review from the Historic Preservation Commission before fabricating historic-district signage.
  • Wall-mounted tenant signs are generally allowed with size limits and mounting requirements.
  • Hanging blade signs are commonly authorized but must meet clearance and projection rules.
  • Internally illuminated box signs and large neon signs are often limited or prohibited in historic districts.
  • Temporary banners and A-frame signs may be allowed with time or location restrictions.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by Planning, Historic Preservation staff, and Building/Codes Enforcement. Specific monetary fines, daily penalties, or escalation amounts for sign violations are not specified on the cited municipal pages; see the municipal code and enforcement contacts for any published schedules.[1]

Failure to remove an unauthorized sign can trigger administrative orders or ticketing.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code or enforcement office for exact figures.[1]
  • Escalation: first offence, repeat, and continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative removal orders, stop-work orders, or court actions may be used.
  • Enforcers and inspection: Planning Department, Historic Preservation Commission staff, and Building/Codes Enforcement accept complaints and inspect alleged violations; contact details and complaint forms are on the city pages.[2]
  • Appeals and review: appeals are typically to the appropriate municipal appeals board or via a municipal court process; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits, zoning permits, and Certificate of Appropriateness applications are the typical documents you must file. Fee schedules, application names, and submission instructions are published by Building Inspections/Permits and the Planning Department; see the city permit pages for official forms and online filing options.[3]

Action Steps

  • Verify whether your property is inside a designated historic district via the Planning Department map and staff.
  • Submit a Certificate of Appropriateness or sign permit application before ordering fabrication when required.
  • Confirm permit fees and payment methods with Building Inspections to avoid processing delays.
  • Report alleged unlawful signage to Codes Enforcement using the city's complaint form or contact portal.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to change a storefront sign in a Murfreesboro historic district?
Usually yes; changes that alter size, attachment, materials, or lighting generally require a permit or Certificate of Appropriateness—check with Planning staff.
What if a sign is already installed and not compliant?
The city may issue a notice to remove or obtain retroactive approval; penalties or removals can follow if compliance is not achieved.
Are temporary signs allowed for special events?
Temporary signs may be allowed under limited conditions and timeframes; verify permitted durations with the Planning Department.

How-To

  1. Confirm historic-district status and applicable zoning for the property with Planning staff.
  2. Prepare sign drawings detailing dimensions, materials, mounting, and illumination for submission.
  3. Submit a permit or Certificate of Appropriateness application via the city's permit portal or in person to Building Inspections.
  4. Wait for staff or Commission review, respond to requests for revisions, and receive written approval before installation.
  5. If cited for a violation, contact Codes Enforcement promptly to request review, pay fines if assessed, or file an appeal as directed.

Key Takeaways

  • Historic district sign rules prioritize materials, scale, and non-intrusive illumination.
  • Obtain required permits or Certificates of Appropriateness before installing signs to avoid enforcement action.
  • Contact Planning and Building/Code Enforcement early for guidance and to find official application forms.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Murfreesboro Code of Ordinances - Signs and Historic District Rules
  2. [2] City of Murfreesboro Historic Preservation Commission - Commission Information
  3. [3] City of Murfreesboro Building Inspections & Permits - Applications and Fees

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