Overview
Charlotte sign permits are issued through the City of Charlotte Development Center. The city uses the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) which consolidates zoning and sign regulations. Applications are submitted through the POSSE online permitting system.
Charlotte's UDO established several pedestrian-oriented zoning districts (MUDD, TOD, UR) with stricter sign standards designed for walkable environments. Signs in these zones are typically limited to smaller, pedestrian-scale formats. Check your UDO district before designing.
What Requires a Permit in Charlotte
- All permanent wall-mounted signs (illuminated and non-illuminated)
- All freestanding signs — monument, pole, pylon
- All illuminated signs of any size or type
- Window signs exceeding the local coverage threshold
- Temporary banners displayed longer than 14–30 days
- Digital / electronic message center signs
- Projecting, blade, and awning signs
Application Checklist
- ✓Completed permit application (via Charlotte Online Permitting (POSSE))
- ✓Site plan showing property boundary and sign location
- ✓Sign drawings — front elevation with exact dimensions and materials
- ✓Photograph of existing building face where sign will be installed
- ✓Landlord / property owner authorization letter (if tenant)
- ✓Electrical drawings + licensed electrician license # (illuminated signs)
- ✓Structural engineering drawings with PE stamp (freestanding signs)
- ✓Permit fee payment
Typical Charlotte Sign Permit Fees
| Sign Type | Estimated Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wall sign (non-illuminated) | $65–$175 | Base + per sq ft |
| Wall sign (illuminated) | $95–$240 | Electrical permit separate |
| Monument sign | $90–$300 | Engineering typically required |
| Pole / pylon sign | $130–$450 | Engineering + inspection |
| Temporary banner | $40–$75 | Per 30-day permit |
| Electrical permit | $65–$200 | Separate from sign permit |
Fees are estimates based on current Charlotte schedules. Verify at charlottenc.gov/development before submitting.
Review Timeline
| Sign Type | Typical Review Time |
|---|---|
| Simple wall sign | 7–15 business days |
| Illuminated sign | 2–4 weeks |
| Monument / freestanding | 3–5 weeks |
| MUDD / TOD / pedestrian district | Add 2–3 weeks for additional review |
Contact Information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Department | City of Charlotte Development Center |
| Online portal | charlottenc.gov/development |
| Phone | (704) 336-2205 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00am–5:00pm |
Applying for a Charlotte sign permit?
Download our universal checklist and timeline planner before you submit.
Download Checklist → Timeline Planner →Disclaimer: This guide reflects Charlotte, NC permit procedures as of 2024–2025. Verify current requirements at charlottenc.gov/development before submitting your application.