In the sign industry, a sign variance is an official exception granted by a local governing authority that allows a business to install signage deviating from standard local sign codes. Unlike a standard permit, a variance requires discretionary approval based on a physical hardship unique to the property.
The Variance Process
An applicant submits architectural drawings, site plans, photos, and a formal narrative to a local board, such as a Board of Zoning Appeals. This narrative must demonstrate a practical difficulty caused by the unique physical conditions of the real estate.
Following the application, the municipality sends notices to neighboring property owners. The board then holds a public hearing to vote on whether to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the request.
Common Types of Sign Variances
Sign companies and clients typically request variances for physical or technical deviations from the standard code.
- Dimensional: Requesting a larger square footage than the code allows.
- Height: Asking for a taller freestanding sign to overcome line-of-sight barriers.
- Placement: Placing a sign closer to property lines than standard setback rules permit.
- Quantity: Installing more signs than allowed per building facade or parcel.
- Technology: Adding electronic message centers or specific illumination in restricted zones.
Cost and Schedule Drivers
Securing a sign variance involves specific costs and timeline extensions. The process introduces fees for municipal filing and public notices. Professional service costs also apply for sign drafting, structural engineering, permit expediters, and land-use attorneys.
Hearing schedules often delay fabrication and installation by weeks or months. If the board denies the variance, the project requires a complete redesign and re-engineering to comply with the standard sign permit process. Understanding why sign permits get rejected helps applicants prepare stronger initial requests.
Sign codes change and vary by zoning district and overlay. Confirm with the authority having jurisdiction before submitting a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wanting better visibility count as a legal hardship?
No. A legal hardship must be physical and unique to the real estate, such as severe topography, heavy tree cover, or an irregular lot shape. Financial loss or the desire for greater advertising visibility alone is insufficient to justify a variance.
How long does the sign variance process take?
The timeline varies by jurisdiction. The process depends on the meeting frequencies of local review boards, which may convene bi-weekly, monthly, or on-demand. Public notice periods and hearing schedules can extend the project timeline by weeks or months.
What is the difference between an administrative variance and a full board variance?
An administrative variance is a minor deviation, such as a small dimensional change, approved directly by city staff without a public hearing. A full board variance requires a public hearing and discretionary approval by a zoning board. This varies by jurisdiction.
Is there software that checks if a sign needs a variance?
Yes. Vuely is AI sales software for sign companies. A rep visits a customer's site, captures a survey with photos and measurements, and Vuely generates a photo-accurate mockup of the sign on the customer's actual building, checks the design against the local city sign code, estimates price, and collects a signature before the rep leaves.
Vuely is AI sales software for sign companies: site surveys, mockups on the customer's own building, and sign code checks before the quote goes out.