City Launches Sign Permit Amnesty And Gives Businesses A Break On Signs Without Permits

The City is offering a voluntary compliance period of six months starting on April 15, 2010, that allows existing businesses that are lacking permits for their existing signs, canopies, awnings, marquees or banners to apply for one or both of the Department of Buildings or Public Way Use Permits at no cost. By applying for all the proper permits during the amnesty, businesses will have all the permit fees waived and avoid future fines.

Who Is Eligible For the Chicago Sign Permit Amnesty Program?

Existing businesses with existing on-premise signs without the proper building permit and/or public way use permit are eligible for the amnesty program from April 15, 2010 to October 15, 2010.

Types of signs eligible for the amnesty:

* Existing signs, canopies, awnings, marquees and banners that advertise the business at the business location.
* Signs must be less than 100 square feet and under 24 feet in height.

For More Information:

* Call 312-74-GOBIZ (744-6249)
* Fill out the Online Business Assistance Form and specify what type of sign you are requesting assistance with in the text box at the bottom of the page.
* Apply in Person: City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs & Consumer Protection Business Assistance Center, 121 N. La Salle Street, City Hall - Room 800, Chicago, IL 60602