NOTE: Applications, forms, and checklists available on this page are in the process of being updated as part of the permitting system upgrade. For more information, please contact PDSDInquiries@tucsonaz.gov or visit our FAQ page about TDC Online.
In support of our community businesses, PDSD has waived the following requirements, effective immediately, until further notice:
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Banner Permit
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A-Frame Sign Permit
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Banner Renewal Fee
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A-Frame Sign Renewal Fee
Installation requirements and restrictions for these signs are still applicable.
The Sign Code Section reviews and issues permit for signs of all types including wall signs, freestanding signs, A-frame signs, banners, billboards and conducts inspections for sign permits.
For sign information, email DSD_Signs@tucsonaz.gov
Sign contractors, email PDSD_SignPermitSubmittals@tucsonaz.gov
Permits
Permits for permanent signs and portable signs are now handled through TDC Online. Please note, permits for the following sign types are currently waived:
- A-Frame & Portable Sign Application for Private Property
- A-Frame & Portable Sign Application for Public Right of Way
- Banner Application
Sign Permit Application (PDF)
Sign Types and Abbreviations (PDF)
Sign Construction & Illumination Abbreviations - for Permit Application (PDF)
Sign Permit Fees
Permit inspection results (you will need the activity number for the permit)
Self Certification Inspection for Non-Illuminated Signs
PDSD has adopted a new policy to streamline simple sign inspections. The policy is for non-illuminated signs that are not subject to special inspection and allows sign contractors to self-certify their installations.
Sign Code (Section 7A Sign Standards - effective Feb 1, 2018)
NOTICE: Newly adopted Sign Standards to go into effect on February 1, 2018.
On December 5, 2017, the City of Tucson Mayor and Council voted to adopt the proposed extensive revisions to the City Sign Code. Those revisions adopted helped to achieve the following goals:
(1) Comply with the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Town of Gilbert (Reed)
(2) Simplify the Sign Code by integrating it into the Unified Development Code (UDC)
(3) Make practical changes that modernize the Code; Improve the quality of design and flexibility of the overall code, and ground it in technical standards.
The adopted sign ordinance with those new Sign Standards may be located here: Sign Standards - Ordinance #11508
Summary of Code Changes from the Sign Code to the Sign Standards (7a of the UDC)
Previous Sign Code Chapter 3 of the Tucson Code - repealed as of February 1, 2018
2007 Sign Code is provided for reference only
Historic Landmark Sign Ordinance
The Historic Landmark Sign (HLS) ordinance, approved by Mayor and Council in 2011, was established to encourage the maintenance, restoration and reuse of historic signs that reflect Tucson's unique character.
Historic Landmark Sign Preservation Program
Sign Code Administration, Determination and Variance Process
Sign Code Compliance Letter Request - To request written information on current or proposed sign allowances for residential, commercial or industrial development, including: applicable code district, allowed square footage ratio, types, amount permitted, installation criteria, and/or development restrictions.
Sign Code Determination Process
Sign Code Interpretations/Determinations
Sign Code Variances - Are now heard by the Board of Adjustment. Please email DSD_Signs@Tucsonaz.gov to schedule a staff pre-application meeting, and obtain information on the application process and public hearing schedule.