Signage

Signage projects include large-scale signage and systems, and markers. Before preparing a submission for historic markers, please review the Public Design Commission's guidelines for Place, Commemorative, and Other Historic Markers.

Before preparing a submission, please review the PDC checklists and supplemental instructions documents. For reference, the PDC also provides a searchable sample presentations collection that includes submission documents for a limited number of previously reviewed and approved projects. Please refer to the checklist and instructions provided below to ensure that submissions are complete, and include the completed checklist with submission packages.    

→ Download the Submission Checklist and Instructions for Signage Projects

The PDC design review process requires submission at various levels of review as the project is developed, including: 

• Conceptual: Required for all large-scale signage and signage systems. Submissions should be made early in the design process when drawings are at the pre-schematic level. 
• Preliminary: Occurs at the end of the schematic design phase. Preliminary approval is conditioned upon submission of the project for final review and approval within two years. All signage is submitted for preliminary review and approval.   
  
• Final: Based on the submission of construction drawings and is conditioned upon commencement of work within two years of the final approval date. Once final approval is received, construction can begin. 
  

The PDC also requires submissions for post-approval actions, including:    

• Amended Preliminary: Only required if there are any significant changes to the approved preliminary proposal, prior to proceeding to final drawings.
• Amended Final: Only required if there are any changes to the approved final proposal, including changes that must be made during construction. 
• Final Sign-off: Occurs after final approval, at the substantial completion of a project and requires the submission of digital and physical photographic documentation. 
• Extension of Approval: Required if the approval expires before construction/fabrication begins, a formal request for an extension must be submitted by the agency.