Awning permit fees waived for small businesses every May

Apply to replace your awning, signs on replacement awnings, or pedestrian-level lighting and get your permit fees waived! This program applies to permit fees from the Department of Building Inspection (DBI), Planning, Fire Department, and Public Works.

“Painting a commercial awning” by Chris Wronski, CC BY-ND 2.0

About the program

Requirements

  • Small business, with 100 or fewer employees
  • Must go through standard permit review process

List of fees waived

Permit fees vary according to the type and amount of work being done.

 

See a list of permit fees waived for awnings every May.

Where to apply

For replacement of the entire awning, including the attachment to the building, apply at both:

  • DBI
  • Planning

For any other type of storefront sign that touches the building, apply at both:

  • DBI
  • Planning

For replacement of only the awning cover, apply at Planning.

 

For pedestrian-level lighting, apply at DBI.

About

Since 2014, DBI and Planning Department permit review fees have been waived for replacement awnings, signs on awning replacements and pedestrian level lightning for the City’s small business owners during Small Business and Building Safety Month in May.

In 2015, this Program became permanent so every year during the month of May, permit fees for awning replacements, signs on awning replacements and pedestrian level lightning will also be waived for Fire Department and Public Works in addition to DBI and Planning permit review fees.