Do You Need a Permit for a Commercial Sign on Long Island?
Yes, in most cases, a permit is required before installing, replacing, or modifying a commercial sign on Long Island.
Permits are typically required for:
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New exterior signs
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Illuminated signs
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Channel letter signs
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Pylon and monument signs
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Changes to size, lighting, or placement
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Replacing an existing sign with a different style or dimensions
Even if a sign already exists, a new permit is often required when changes are made. Our Long Island sign permit guide will cover the details.
Why Sign Permits Matter More Than You Think
Many business owners assume permits are a formality. In reality, they directly affect:
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How quickly your sign can be installed
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Whether your sign complies with local zoning codes
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Whether your business avoids fines or forced removal
Installing a sign without the proper approvals can result in:
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Stop-work orders
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Fines from the town or village
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Mandatory sign removal
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Delays reopening or launching a location
We’ve seen projects delayed months because permitting was handled incorrectly or ignored entirely.
Nassau County vs Suffolk County: What’s Different?
There is no single “Long Island sign code.” Each town and village sets its own rules, which is why permits can feel confusing.
Nassau County
Nassau County includes towns like Hempstead, North Hempstead, and Oyster Bay, along with many incorporated villages.
Common considerations include:
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Strict size and height limitations
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Design review boards in many villages
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Illumination restrictions in certain zones
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Additional approvals for shopping centers and multi-tenant properties
Suffolk County
Suffolk County towns such as Islip, Babylon, Brookhaven, Huntington, and Smithtown each have their own requirements.
Common considerations include:
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Setback requirements
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Height restrictions for freestanding signs
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Illumination brightness and timing
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Zoning classifications that affect sign type eligibility
Because rules vary town by town, the same sign design may be approved in one location and denied in another.
Types of Signs That Typically Require Permits
While requirements vary, permits are commonly required for:
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Illuminated signs of any type
Interior signs generally do not require permits, but exterior visibility almost always triggers review.
How Long Does the Sign Permit Process Take?
Permit timelines depend on location, sign type, and completeness of the application.
On average:
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Simple storefront signs may take a few weeks
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More complex signs can take several weeks or longer
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Pylon or monument signs often require extended review
Delays are most often caused by:
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Incomplete applications
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Designs that don’t meet local code
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Missing property owner approvals
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Incorrect sign specifications
Planning for permits early is critical to keeping your project on schedule.
Common Sign Permit Mistakes to Avoid
Some of the most common issues we see include:
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Designing a sign before understanding local restrictions
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Assuming a landlord’s approval replaces a town permit
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Installing a sign before approvals are issued
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Reusing a previous tenant’s permit without verification
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Submitting applications without proper drawings or specifications
These mistakes almost always lead to delays or rework.
How Valle Signs Helps With Sign Permits
We know the permit process is one of the biggest pain points for business owners. That’s why we offer sign permit expediting as part of our services.
When we handle permits, we:
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Review local zoning and sign codes before design
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Prepare and submit complete permit applications
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Coordinate with towns, villages, and review boards
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Address revisions or feedback if required
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Keep your project moving forward
Our goal is simple, to save you time, avoid headaches, and make sure your sign is approved the right way the first time.
Planning a New Sign on Long Island?
If you’re considering a new commercial sign, the permit process should never be an afterthought. Understanding the rules early can save weeks of delays and unexpected costs.
We understand how hard it is to navigate this on your own, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re planning channel letters, a monument sign, or a full shopping center pylon sign, our team can guide you through design, permitting, fabrication, and installation.
If you’re not sure what’s required for your location, we’d be happy to review it with you and point you in the right direction.
Contact Valle Signs & Awnings Today for a consultation at our Copiague location. Call (516) 408-3440 today.