What is a sign permit?
A sign permit is required by the city for most advertising signs installed, replaced or changed within the city.
When is a sign permit required?
A sign permit is required for most advertising signs installed within the city. Whether you are installing a new sign or changing the face of an existing sign, you should contact Code Enforcement and Public Health Division to assure that the sign meets city ordinance requirements and to verity what the requirements are for a permit. Temporary signs for business advertising require permits. The Sign Ordinance (see Brooklyn Park's Code of Ordinances at www.amlegal.com/brooklyn_park_mn/) contains specific requirements for temporary real estate, advertising, garage sale and event signs.
Where can I obtain a sign permit?
Applications for sign permits are available by contacting the Engineering and Building Division at Brooklyn Park City Hall, located at 5200 85th Ave. N (763-488-6379). A copy of the design drawing of the sign and a location map are required with all applications for permanent sign permits.
What are the fees associated with a sign permit?
Fees are charged according to the city fee schedule (see fees in Brooklyn Park's Code of Ordinances) and are based on the type of sign. Permits for wall signs are $90.00 per sign, free-standing signs are $150.00 per sign, and monument signs are $150.00 per sign. Temporary sign permits, such as banners, are $75.00 per calendar month.
What inspections are required in order to have a sign permit issued?
A footing inspection is required for all pylon and monument type sign. In addition, a site inspection will be made to verify the location, and a final inspection will be conducted when the sign is completed. Separate electrical permits and inspections are required for signs with lighting or electrical hookup. You need to contact the MN State Electrical Inspector for permits and requirements.
Sign Permits:
Permanent signs. A permit is required when installing a new sign, changing the face, or altering an existing sign. In addition, a permit must be obtained for using a temporary banner and for nonprofit event signs.
Temporary signs. Each business is allowed a maximum of 3 permits in a calendar year for a banner. Each permit is good for one calendar month. For example, if a sale is from July 20th to August 20th, two separate permits are required, one for July and one for August.
Questions regarding signs, permits, fees, setbacks, and complaints should be directed to the Engineerig and Building Division.(City Ord. Ch. 150)
Prohibited Signs:
The following types of signs are prohibited:
- Portable Signs- sandwich boards, roll out, etc.
- Motion Signs- Except those that display time and/or temperature information or have a message that does not change more frequently than once every six hours.
- Roof Signs- signs installed above the building façade.
- Projecting Signs- beyond the face of a building or structure.
- Signs having more than 2 sign faces.
- Any attention getting devices such as streamers, balloons, blow-up animals, etc.
- Flashing or rotating signs or lights are not permitted on temporary signs.
- Signs that are attached to trees, fences, utility poles or other such supports not specifically intended as sign structures. (Temporary banners for which a permit has been obtained may be attached to fences and existing buildings).
- Signs painted directly on building walls.
- Portable advertisement signs are limited to banners only and a permit is required.
