DOB awning permit: New York City restaurant guide

NYC DOB

What it is

A fabric or metal awning attached to the building is treated like a sign/building appurtenance: it needs a DOB permit, and lettering on it makes it a sign.

When a restaurant needs it

Installing or replacing a storefront awning (attached to the building, not supported on sidewalk poles).

How to apply

Your sign company or architect files the awning in DOB NOW: Build (electronically) or at the DOB borough office; Landmarks approval first if the building is landmarked.

Documents you’ll need

Awning drawings (projection, height above sidewalk, materials)
Photos of the storefront
LPC permit if applicable

Fee

Varies — see DOB fee schedule (sign-type fees apply if lettered: $5 per 100 sq ft, not less than $35, plus the alteration filing fee)

Processing time

Varies

Renewal

None (illuminated awnings follow the annual illuminated-sign rules)

Who files

Filed by the sign company / licensed sign hanger or your architect.

Good to know

Awning (attached to the wall) = DOB; canopy (held up by poles in the sidewalk) = DOT canopy authorization (TR-33). In historic districts LPC has its own awning rules (LPC Permit Guidebook, Chapter 4).

Official source

NYC311 — Billboard, building sign or awning permit · DOB — Sign permits

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