Practical Checklist for Sign Permits in Arizona

If you’re going to install an illuminated sign or change your facade, sign permits in Phoenix is the first box you need to check. In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for obtaining commercial sign permits in Phoenix and surrounding cities, including which documents to prepare, who signs the plans, and which regulations apply. The goal: to get your project approved on the first try, without rejections or surprises during inspection.

Step 1. Define the scope (sign type and location)

Before drawing, note what you’re going to install: storefront/wall sign, monument, or pylon; whether it’s illuminated or not; and where it will go (wall, canopy, new pedestal, or existing structure). Phoenix requires a permit for most signs and regulates sizes, heights, and placement in its zoning ordinance, Section 705.

Quick Checklist

Sign type (wall-mounted / freestanding).

Approximate dimensions and height.

Whether or not you reuse an existing structure.

Whether it will have electric lighting (LED/light boxes).

Step 2. Review the local regulations (and city-specific details)

Although this guide focuses on Phoenix, each city in the Valley fine-tunes process details and timelines.

Phoenix: the Planning & Development area handles the permitting process, technical review (TRT), and submittal guidelines. Use it as the primary reference for requirements and contacts.

Scottsdale: publishes its Sign Permitting Process with defined substantive review times of 7 days per cycle (no fast track). Useful for planning schedules in corridors with esthetic guidelines.

Tempe: requires sealed plans for wall signs that project 16″ or more and for freestanding signs 8 ft or taller; also requires a Special Inspection Certificate in those cases.

Mesa: sets a reference turnaround time of 10 business days per review cycle, with an option to expedite it to 5 days (at an additional cost). Useful when the opening date is pressing.

If you manage multiple locations, create a matrix by city with deadlines, who signs, formats, and whether they allow electronic review. It saves you weeks.

Step 3. Prepare the technical package (what they’ll definitely ask for).

Assemble a complete submittal to avoid delays:

Plans/engineering drawings: elevation and plan views of the sign showing height × width, depth, materials, mounting method, and anchor points.

Site location: site plan showing setbacks, distance to rights-of-way, and sight triangle if near access points.

Electrical: single-line diagram, estimated load, drivers, and product labeling.

Authorization from the property/facility owner.

Facade photos for context and simulation.

Phoenix publishes technical guides and brochures (TRT) that explain frequently asked questions, where to apply, and how to submit your file. Having everything ready from the start speeds up approval.

Step 4. Verify electrical compliance (NEC Art. 600 + UL 48).

For electrical/illuminated signs, you must consider two basic standards:

Installation: NEC Article 600 (National Electrical Code).

Product safety: UL 48 (electrical signage, outline lighting, neon). The International Sign Association summarizes both frameworks and their current status: today UL 48 is in its 15th edition and has undergone recent updates that affect the labeling of channel letters and the definitions of “section sign.” Working with compliant components and manufacturers simplifies the final inspection.

Step 5. Submit your application and follow up (what to expect).

Review cycle: in Phoenix, review depends on the municipality’s workload and the completeness of the submission; other cities publish reference times (e.g., Scottsdale 7 days; Mesa 10 days, 5 for expedited review).

Observations: respond promptly to comments on structural, electrical, or location issues.

Inspections: Upon completion of the installation, schedule an inspection. Some cities specify line items such as electrical (520) and foundation (530) for monument/pylon.

Step 6. Flags and temporary rules? Different rules

Temporary promotions (banners, feather flags) typically have limits on area, duration, and location and sometimes require a separate permit. Example: Scottsdale sets limits on banners (size and location), and Glendale publishes guidelines for electronic review and usage guides. Verify before printing to avoid non-compliance.

Typical errors that cost time

Drawing without consulting Section 705 results in height and setback violations. Review the ordinance before designing.

Unsealed plans where the city requires them (e.g., Tempe): the package is rejected.

Failure to document electrical work in accordance with code (NEC 600/UL 48): hinders inspection.

Forgetting owner authorization or center guidelines (sign package): causes redesign.

Inadequate messaging or brightness in sensitive areas: anticipate the plaza’s esthetic criteria or master plan.

How does Mas Color Signs help you?

Initial consultation to validate the applicable Arizona sign regulations based on your address.

Site survey and photos: we determine the sign footprint, height, and setbacks.

Sealed plans (when applicable), structural and electrical report.

Submittal to the city (Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Glendale) and response to comments.

Code-compliant installation and inspection coordination until your final approval.

This way, we reduce risks and real-world permit approval times, so your brand can hit the streets without any friction.

Questions for your first call

Does the area allow electronic signs/EMC or have nit limits?

Maximum heights per corridor and distance to the right-of-way (ROW)?

Is the review electronic or in person? How many typical cycles?

Specific inspections (electrical/foundation) and scheduling times?

Request a consultation with Mas Color Signs.

Do you want a permit approved without any hassle? Schedule a consultation with Mas Color Signs. We handle plans, submittals, and coordination with the municipality, and we’ll be with you every step of the way until the final inspection. Request a quote or call 623-297-3457 to get started.

FAQs

Do I always need a permit for a sign?

In Phoenix, with very few exceptions, signs require a permit and must comply with Section 705 (type, size, height, location). We have validated your specific case.

Who should sign the plans?

It depends on the type and size. Cities like Tempe require sealed plans for signs that extend beyond a certain threshold or for tall freestanding signs. We’ll let you know when it applies.

How long does approval take?

It varies by city and workload. For reference, Scottsdale takes 7 days per cycle; Mesa takes 10 days (5 expedited). Submitting a complete package reduces processing times.