Apply for a Sign Permit

A Sign Permit is needed before any signs can be erected, altered, or repaired in the city, unless specifically exempted in the Zoning Ordinance. Signs like campaign signs, real estate signs, construction signs, yard sale signs, and holiday displays are generally exempted. You can find the complete list of exempted types of signs in Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance. If it's not listed as an exemption, apply for a Sign Permit. 

You will need to submit a rendering of the sign and a diagram of the sign placement with your application. 

Online

Step 1.Review the Zoning Ordinance

Before submitting an application, review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding signs, exemptions, and requirements in different zone districts.

Review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance

Step 2.Search for the Property on BS&A Online

Click the link below and search for the property you are applying for a building permit for. Select the property and click the next button. 

Search BS&A Online

Note: If you visit BS&A from a bookmark or a different link, you can access Building Department features like applying for a permit from the left side services menu. Just click "Apply for a Permit" under the Building Department header. 

Step 3.Enter the Permit Details

Select the type of permit from the drop-down menu and then enter the details for your work. The information that you are asked will depend on the type of permit that you select. Follow the prompts from BS&A Online and enter all of the requested information. You can also upload documents related to your permit. For a Sign Permit, you should upload a rendering or artwork for the sign along with a diagram for its placement. 

BS&A will allow you to estimate certain costs associated with your application, but a member of our team will calculate the total fees and follow up with you after the application has been reviewed.

Step 4.Submit Application 

You will have the opportunity to review all of the information that has been entered before submitting. Verify that everything is correct and then click submit. A member of our team will follow up regarding your application and to arrange payment of the total fees. 

Step 5.Review and Approval  

Your application will be reviewed by our building & trades staff. They may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by email and receive an invoice with the total permit fee. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks.  

By Mail

Step 1.Review the Zoning Ordinance

Before submitting an application, review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding signs, exemptions, and requirements in different zone districts. '

Review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance

Step 2.Submit an Application

Print and complete the Application for a Sign Permit and return it by mail to: 

City of Kalamazoo
Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Make sure you sign the application and include a rendering of the sign and a diagram of its placement. You can also scan the application and supporting documents and email them to development@kalamazoocity.org.

Sign Permit Application(PDF, 558KB)

Step 3.Review & Approval

Your application will be reviewed by our Building & Trades and Zoning staff. They may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by mail and receive an invoice with the total permit fees. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks.   

In Person

Step 1.Review the Zoning Ordinance

Before submitting an application, review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding signs, exemptions, and requirements in different zone districts. '

Review Chapter 7 of the Zoning Ordinance

Step 2.Submit an Application

Visit the Community Planning & Economic Development Office and pick up a copy of the permit application:

City of Kalamazoo
Community Planning & Economic Development
245 N Rose Street Suite 100
Kalamazoo, MI 49007

Complete the application and return it with supporting documentation to our office during regular business hours. You can also mail it to the address above or scan the application and email it to development@kalamazoocity.org. Make sure you sign the application and provide a rendering of the sign and a diagram of its placement.  

Sign Permit Application(PDF, 558KB)

Step 3.Review & Approval

Your application will be reviewed by our Building & Trades and Zoning staff. They may contact you if additional information is necessary. If your permit is approved, you will be notified by mail and receive an invoice with the total permit fees. Payment instructions will be included with the invoice. Review and approval of permits can take up to two weeks.  

By Phone

Unfortunately, we are unable to process permit applications by phone, but we are happy to answer questions about the process or help connect you with the our building & trades team. If you have questions, call 311 or (269) 337-8000.