Sign Permit Application Checklist

NOTES:

Sidewalk signs, also called sandwich board signs, do not require a Building Permit. Click HERE to access the Sidewalk Sign application which includes sample pictures of what is permissible. Sidewalk Sign applications may be submitted directly to Zoning for approval by clicking HERE.

Monument signs require a Clearing and Grubbing Permit which can be found HERE. This additional permit must be submitted with the sign permit application.

Painted signage is not permitted unless the painted signage area is a component of a mural or art. A mural/art area is not considered signage, and no sign permit is required. However, if any portion of a mural/art contains commercial speech or a logo, a sign permit application must be submitted. Please keep in mind that only the commercial speech and/or logo area is considered signage, and the size of that area must be calculated in order to determine consistency with the city’s standards for signage.

Sign Permit Application Checklist

Step 1.Verify if your property is in the City of Clearwater

If you are uncertain that you are in City of Clearwater jurisdiction or to confirm, visit the Pinellas County Property Appraiser website at https://pcpao.org/, enter the address in the Real Property box and click search. In the search results under Parcel Summary, look under Current Tax District for Clearwater, CW, CWD or CWDO, all of which indicate you are in City of Clearwater jurisdiction.

Step 2.FOR CONTRACTORS 

If you are a licensed contractor performing the work, click HERE to access the City’s ePermit system and register for an account or login to complete the application process. Download and complete the Sign Permit Application which can be found HERE. Only licensed contractors are presently able to use ePermit for sign permit applications.

Step 3.Obtain a copy of a current survey of the property

This can typically be found among the purchase or mortgage documents. Mark the exact location of the signs on the survey. If it is an attached sign, two copies must accompany the application, with three copies required if the sign is not attached. 

Step 4.Obtain construction plans/details.

Two copies must accompany the application. 

Step 5.Provide or obtain from the property owner a notarized statement authorization consenting to the sign placement. 

Step 6.FOR HOMEOWNERS ONLY

Bring the completed application along with required information listed above to the Planning & Development Department, temporarily located at 2741 State Road 580, Clearwater. NOTE: Based on the details of the request, the applicant may be required to complete a Comprehensive Sign Program Application. Click HERE to download a copy of the Comprehensive Sign Program Application

Step 7.FOR CONTRACTORS ONLY 

Complete the application submission online via ePermit.

Pay any fees associated with the application

Visit the Fee Estimator page by clicking HERE to estimate the cost of your permit.

Step 8.Check contract price

If the contract price (including materials and labor) is greater than $5,000, contractors must file a Notice of Commencement. Click HERE for more information about Notice of Commencement and to complete this process.

Step 9.Wait for review and approval

Staff will review the application and supporting documents and proceed with the required additional steps for approval. 

 

For additional information or to follow up on your submission, call (727) 562-4567 or email epermit@myclearwater.com.