Don’t let a missing sign permit delay your grand opening. In Denver, even a simple storefront sign needs city approval—and getting it wrong could mean costly changes or fines.
Whether it’s a sleek illuminated logo or a temporary banner, most exterior signage requires a permit and must meet strict zoning and building standards.
In this resource, we’ll explain what kinds of signs require permits, how the review process works, how long it typically takes, and what it costs—so you can get your signage approved, installed, and ready to welcome customers on day one.
What requires a sign permit?
Basically any permanent exterior sign (e.g., wall signs, projecting signs, freestanding signs, illuminated signs) will require a permit. Even temporary banners have permit rules if displayed for extended periods.
Interior signs generally don’t need permits unless they are very large and visible from outside.
As part of planning, you should check the zoning for any specific sign district rules. Denver’s zoning code has different allowances by zone.
What is the process for getting a sign permit?
The permit application for a sign typically includes a drawing of the sign, details on its dimensions, how it will be mounted, any lighting (neon or LED, etc.), and a site/building elevation showing where the sign goes.
Zoning review will verify the sign meets size, height, and location restrictions. Building review will check that the sign’s installation is structurally sound (and if illuminated, that electrical work is done by a licensed electrician).
Denver’s CPD allows some small signs to be reviewed over-the-counter or same-day. For example, if you go in person with a complete application, a simple wall sign might get a quick review.
Larger signs or those needing complex review will be left for plan review.
How long to sign permits take to get approved in Denver?
For relatively simple signs, expect the process to take on the order of a few weeks (2–4 weeks). This includes time to prepare the documents, submit, and get the review completed.
However, if the sign is large, illuminated, or in a special area (like a historic district or downtown), additional scrutiny can extend the timeline.
It’s not uncommon for such sign approvals to take 6–8 weeks due to multiple review cycles or required adjustments. If a sign doesn’t conform to code, you might have to seek a variance, which is a separate process through the zoning adjustment board, adding months – best to design within allowed specs to avoid this.
What is the cost of a Denver sign permit?
Denver’s fee for a basic sign permit is quite low – only $25 per sign permit (base fee).
If the sign has electrical components, there might be a small electrical permit fee. But strictly from a city standpoint, the permit fee is nominal.
Note: If your project is a larger development that opted for a Comprehensive Sign Plan for the whole site, that’s a different process with a higher fee of $500 – but for a single restaurant that’s not usually applicable.
Who oversees Denver sign permit approvals?
The Denver CPD (Development Services) handles sign permits, through their zoning/building division.
The city’s “Apply for a Sign Permit” page provides guidance. It’s important to follow the sign code because improper signage (i.e., too large, etc.) can lead to permit denials or required changes, impacting your opening.
Plan your sign early so you can have it approved and fabricated in time for opening – as noted, lead times could be over a month, and you’ll want your restaurant’s name visible when you open.