The city of Knoxville's zoning ordinance regulates the type and size of all signs in the City of Knoxville. The permit and inspection process ensures that all signs comply with adopted regulations regarding construction, placement, and size of signs within the city limits. The zoning of the property regulates the placement and size of signs. Zoning for a specific address can be obtained from
www.kgis.org. Regulations for signs are found in
Article 13. Signs of the City's Zoning Ordinance.
Do I Need a Permit for My Sign?
Permits are required for all signs, permanent or temporary. A sign permit is required prior to erecting or installing a sign. Billboards and advertising signs legally existing prior to this date may be rebuilt in compliance with TCA 13-7-208.
How Do I Get a Permit?
For each sign, the applicant must submit:
• A non-refundable fee of $75 for construction review and an additional sum of $5.00 per $1,000 of sign construction value.
• A completed
Building Permit Application. Please refer to the
sign checklist for submittal requirements.
After review and approval, the sign permit, along with one copy of all drawings will be emailed to you. The permit and drawings should be on the job site at the time of inspection. If there are code deficiencies, you will be advised of the corrections needed
Electrical work associated with a sign requires a separate electrical permit. All electrical work must be done by a City of Knoxville licensed electrician.
Is an Inspection Necessary?
An inspector must inspect all signs. Ground signs require footing and final inspections. The footing inspection is required prior to pouring concrete and after the hole is dug and steel reinforcement, if required, installed. The final inspection is required after the sign is installed. Wall signs require a final inspection.