Sign permit (Planning + DBI) with electrical permit for illuminated signs: San Francisco restaurant guide
SF Planning / DBI
What it is
Most commercial signs need a building permit reviewed by Planning (Planning Code Article 6 size, height and lighting limits) and DBI; an illuminated sign also needs a DBI electrical permit pulled by a C-10 or C-45 contractor.
When a restaurant needs it
New, replaced or altered exterior signs. No permit for window signs, awning-only signs, temporary sale/lease signs, painted door/window signs in commercial districts, or routine maintenance.
How to apply
A licensed contractor, sign installer or design professional prepares scaled elevation drawings and manufacturer specs; file in the PermitSF portal (sign and awning permits moved online June 2025) or at the Permit Center.
Documents you’ll need
- Scaled elevation drawing with dimensions, height, projection and letter size
- Manufacturer specifications
- Photos of the storefront
- Electrical details for illuminated signs
- Historic review clearance if applicable
Good to know
One permit can cover up to 5 identical signs; different designs need separate permits. Unpermitted existing signs can be legalized through the awning/sign amnesty process.
Official source
SF — guide to awnings and signs for businesses · SF — check if you need a permit for your sign
Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.
Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.