Installation & Permits
What you are responsible for, what we provide, and how to plan ahead so your sign can go up as soon as it arrives.
Last updated: 2026-10-11
Your responsibilities
Customers are responsible for installation, permits, landlord approvals, and electrical connection by a licensed electrician. We supply mounting templates, hardware where applicable, and installation guides, and we can help you find a local installer.
We do not install signs. You are responsible for:
- getting any required sign permits, electrical permits and inspections;
- getting approval from your landlord, property manager, shopping center or HOA;
- making sure the sign's size, placement and lighting comply with local sign codes and any lease rules;
- confirming that your wall or structure can safely support the sign;
- hiring and paying an installer and a licensed electrician;
- providing a suitable power supply at the sign location.
Installation, permit and electrical costs are not included in your quotation unless it says otherwise in writing.
Permits and landlord or HOA approvals
Most cities require a sign permit for exterior signs, and many shopping centers require landlord approval. We provide the drawings and specification sheets permit offices usually request.
Permit rules, fees and review times vary widely by city and county. Some places also limit sign size, brightness, colors or hours of illumination. We cannot guarantee that a permit or landlord approval will be granted, and we are not responsible if it is refused or delayed. If a permit office or landlord requires changes, contact us before you approve your design so we can issue a revised version.
Tip: Ask your landlord or property manager for their sign criteria (often a "sign criteria" or "tenant sign package" document) when you request a quote. Sharing it with us early helps us design a sign that meets their rules.
Licensed electrician required
Illuminated signs must be connected by a licensed electrician in accordance with local electrical codes. Connecting or modifying wiring yourself, or having it done by an unlicensed person, is unsafe and voids the warranty.
What we provide
Depending on your sign and order, we provide, where applicable:
- mounting templates (full-size patterns showing letter positions and mounting/wire holes);
- mounting hardware;
- specification sheets (dimensions, materials, weight, power requirements);
- wiring diagrams;
- an installation guide;
- drawings and specification sheets that permit offices and landlords usually request.
If your permit office or landlord asks for something we have not provided, contact us and we will help where we can. Scaled drawings and specification sheets are included free. If your city requires stamped engineering drawings or wind-load calculations, we can arrange them on request and will quote that cost separately before you commit.
Finding an installer
We can recommend independent local installers on request. Installers are independent businesses and are paid directly by you. Any referral is a courtesy. We do not employ, supervise or guarantee independent installers or electricians, and their work is not covered by our warranty. Ask for proof of license and insurance before hiring anyone.
Power and indoor/outdoor ratings
Each sign's specification sheet lists its power requirements and whether it is rated for indoor or outdoor use. Your design proof lists the input voltage, power supply type and location, and the indoor, outdoor or wet-location rating before anything is made. If your permit office or landlord requires a specific listing mark, tell us before you approve the design; we only state certifications we can document.
- Tell us whether your sign will be installed indoors, outdoors, or in a covered outdoor area when you request a quote.
- Do not install an indoor-rated sign outdoors or in a damp or wet location.
- Your electrician should confirm that a suitable circuit, disconnect switch and any required timer or photocell are in place, as required by local code.
Safety
- Turn off power at the breaker before any work on the sign or its power supply.
- Use proper lifts or scaffolding and fall protection for work at height.
- Make sure fasteners and anchors suit your wall material and the sign's weight.
- Keep power supplies ventilated and protected as described in the installation guide.
- If the sign is damaged, flickers, smells of burning, or shows exposed wiring, switch it off and contact a licensed electrician and us.
Timeline tip: start permits early
Permits and landlord approvals can take longer than making the sign. We recommend starting the process as soon as you approve your design, using the approved design proof and specification sheet. That way, your installer can be ready when your sign arrives. Typical production and shipping times are in our Shipping Policy and on How it works.
Questions about your project? Request a quote or contact us. These terms form part of our Terms & Conditions.