Overview
Indianapolis-Marion County is a consolidated city-county government (Unigov). Sign permits for businesses within the consolidated city are issued through the Department of Metropolitan Development (DMD). The city uses a Unified Development Ordinance covering both Marion County and the City of Indianapolis.
Indianapolis has several Jurisdictional Areas including the Old City limits and surrounding townships, each with slightly different administrative processes. Confirm whether your address falls within the consolidated city jurisdiction or an excluded city (Beech Grove, Lawrence, Southport, Speedway) — excluded cities have their own permitting departments.
What Requires a Permit in Indianapolis
- 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 Accela Citizen Access Portal)
- ✓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 Indianapolis Sign Permit Fees
| Sign Type | Estimated Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wall sign (non-illuminated) | $55–$160 | Base + per sq ft |
| Wall sign (illuminated) | $80–$220 | Electrical permit separate |
| Monument sign | $85–$280 | Engineering may be required |
| Pole / pylon sign | $120–$400 | Engineering required |
| Temporary banner | $35–$70 | Per permit period |
| Electrical permit | $55–$175 | Separate from sign permit |
Fees are estimates based on current Indianapolis schedules. Verify at indy.gov/activity/permits before submitting.
Review Timeline
| Sign Type | Typical Review Time |
|---|---|
| Simple wall sign | 5–12 business days |
| Illuminated sign | 2–3 weeks |
| Freestanding sign | 3–5 weeks |
| Historic preservation areas | Add 3–6 weeks |
Contact Information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Department | Indianapolis Division of Planning (IMPD / DMD) |
| Online portal | indy.gov/activity/permits |
| Phone | (317) 327-5136 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri 8:00am–4:30pm |
Applying for a Indianapolis sign permit?
Download our universal checklist and timeline planner before you submit.
Download Checklist → Timeline Planner →Disclaimer: This guide reflects Indianapolis, IN permit procedures as of 2024–2025. Verify current requirements at indy.gov/activity/permits before submitting your application.