Public Improvement Commission Projection License (awning, canopy or sign over the sidewalk): Boston restaurant guide

Boston Public Improvement Commission

What it is

Anything that projects over the public sidewalk — awnings, canopies, marquees, blade signs — needs a PIC projection license granted at a public hearing, in addition to the ISD sign/building permit and any Landmarks approval.

When a restaurant needs it

Installing an awning, canopy or sign that hangs over the public way.

How to apply

Email the petition and plans (using PIC's projection templates and checklist) to PIC@boston.gov by the Thursday before the hearing you want; hearings are every two weeks on Thursdays at 10 a.m. in City Hall Room 801.

Documents you’ll need

PIC petition (projection template)
Dimensioned drawings showing the projection, clearance height and distance from the curb
Photos
Property owner authorization
Insurance

Fee

Varies — PIC publishes fee worksheets by petition type; contact 617-635-4960

Processing time

Several weeks: file by the Thursday before a hearing; hearings every two weeks

Renewal

License runs with the installation; check conditions in the vote

Who files

The business, its architect or sign company petitions; the property owner signs.

Good to know

ISD will not issue the sign or awning permit until the PIC vote is in hand. Sidewalk cafés on the public way also go through PIC (the Outdoor Dining Program handles seasonal patios).

Official source

Boston — Public Improvement Commission

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.