Do I need a permit to install a new sign in a historic district?

Yes, many signs require a Certificate of Appropriateness and a building or sign permit; confirm with the Landmarks Commission and the Planning Division.

Can my business use illuminated signage?

Illumination may be allowed if compatible with historic character; internal illumination is often restricted and external, shielded lighting is preferred.

What happens if I install a sign without approval?

You may receive a notice of violation, be ordered to modify or remove the sign, and potentially face fines or municipal court action.

New South Memphis Historic District Sign Rules - Tennessee

Signs and Advertising Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026

In New South Memphis, Tennessee, signs in locally designated historic districts are subject to special rules to protect neighborhood character while allowing businesses and property owners to communicate. This guide summarizes the typical controls you will encounter, which city office enforces them, how to apply for approvals or a Certificate of Appropriateness, common violations, and the steps to appeal or request a variance. It is intended for property owners, business operators, designers, and contractors working within historic district boundaries who need practical, step-by-step direction on lawful sign design and permitting.

Overview of Historic District Sign Rules

Historic district sign regulations focus on size, placement, materials, illumination, and design compatibility. In New South Memphis these rules are implemented through the city's historic preservation process and permitting workflow. Typical requirements include limitations on sign area, mounting methods that avoid damaging historic fabric, and restrictions on permanent versus temporary signs.

Types: wall-mounted, projecting, awning, window, temporary banners, and sandwich boards.
Materials: durable, historically compatible materials are preferred; vinyl banners may be restricted.
Size & placement: maximum area and setback rules tied to building frontage and historic features.
Illumination: internal illumination is often limited; external, shielded lighting is commonly allowed.
Alterations: attaching signs that damage historic materials typically requires prior approval.

Historic review generally precedes building or sign permits in designated districts.

Who Administers the Rules

The Memphis Landmarks Commission and the City of Memphis Division of Planning and Development oversee review of changes in historic districts, with code enforcement and permitting handled through city permitting offices. For official guidance or to begin an application, contact the Landmarks Commission webpage Memphis Landmarks Commission^[1] and the City Code Enforcement division City Code Enforcement^[2].

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules within historic districts combines administrative compliance orders, permit stop-work directives, and potential fines under the municipal code. The Landmarks Commission and Code Enforcement coordinate inspections and notices of violation.

Monetary fines: specific fine amounts are not stated on the cited city pages and are "not specified on the cited page". Memphis Landmarks Commission^[1]
Escalation: first or repeat offence structure is not specified on the cited page; refer to the municipal code or enforcement office for current schedules.
Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to remove or modify signs, administrative notices, and referral to municipal court for unresolved cases.
Enforcer & complaints: contact Code Enforcement for inspections and complaints via the City Code Enforcement page City Code Enforcement^[2].
Appeals & review: appeals typically proceed through administrative review or municipal court; explicit time limits for appeal are not specified on the cited pages and must be confirmed with the City Clerk or permitting office.

If you receive a notice, act quickly to request a review or submit required permits.

Applications & Forms

Certificate of Appropriateness (COA): used for changes to historic properties including some signs; specific form name or number is not specified on the cited pages and applicants should contact the Landmarks Commission for the current COA application.
Fees: fee schedules for COAs or sign permits are not specified on the cited pages; check the Planning Division or permitting portal for current fees.
Submission: permits and applications are submitted through the City of Memphis permitting office or Planning Division; see the Planning and Development webpages for submission instructions.

How-To

Determine whether your property is within a designated historic district by consulting the Landmarks Commission or city zoning maps.
Contact the Landmarks Commission early to confirm whether a Certificate of Appropriateness is required and obtain guidance on acceptable materials and designs.
Prepare drawings and photos showing proposed sign size, location, materials, mounting method, and illumination details.
Submit the COA application and any required permit applications to the Planning Division or permitting portal; pay the applicable fee as listed by the city.
Await review by staff or the Landmarks Commission; respond to any requested revisions and secure final permits before installation.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to install a new sign in a historic district?: Yes, many signs require a Certificate of Appropriateness and a building or sign permit; confirm with the Landmarks Commission and the Planning Division.
Can my business use illuminated signage?: Illumination may be allowed if compatible with historic character; internal illumination is often restricted and external, shielded lighting is preferred.
What happens if I install a sign without approval?: You may receive a notice of violation, be ordered to modify or remove the sign, and potentially face fines or municipal court action.

Key Takeaways

Check historic district status and consult the Landmarks Commission before designing signs.
Obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness and required permits to avoid enforcement actions.