Sign Services in Berkeley, California
Professional Signage Solutions for Berkeley Businesses
Snapshot: Berkeley's Sign‑Permit Rules
All exterior signs in Berkeley—wall, projecting, ground, awning, or illuminated—must obtain a Sign Permit issued under Title 20 of the Berkeley Municipal Code.
Licensed Contractors
Although property owners may file applications themselves, most permits move faster when a CSLB‑licensed C‑45 sign contractor or C‑10 electrician submits the permit package through Berkeley's Permit Service Center.
Business License
That contractor must also hold an active Berkeley business license—all contractors need a City of Berkeley business license before any permits can be issued.
Services We Offer in Berkeley
Custom Sign Fabrication – Berkeley's go‑to for window vinyl, interior wall graphics, vehicle graphics, ADA signage, wayfinding systems, menu boards, blade & hanging signs, plexiglass inserts, and storefront signs.
Professional Installation – Skilled crews install wall‑mounted, ground‑mounted, Dibond panel, and drop‑ship sign products in Downtown, Temescal, Elmwood, and South Berkeley.
Sign Repair & Maintenance – Comprehensive service including cleaning, resurfacing, removal of old signs, and fabrication of new replacements.
Permit Guidance – Full‑service support with application prep, code compliance checks, and direct liaison with Berkeley planning departments.
Our Berkeley Advantage
- Deep familiarity with Title 20 Sign Code requirements.
- Permit Service Counter at 1947 Center Street, 3rd Floor (Mon–Thu 8:30 am–2:30 pm; last sign‑in 2:00 pm).
- Transparent pricing—no hidden plan‑check surcharges.
- Vetted network of CSLB‑licensed contractors for official filings.
- Fast turnaround on document sets—even as City fees adjust in 2024‑25.
How We Help (No License? No Problem)
Pre‑flight code check – Confirm size, height, lighting, and zoning limits before fabrication.
Document prep – Complete Berkeley's "Application for Signs" form plus elevation drawings.
Permit liaison – Monitor your file in Accela Citizen Access and flag corrections.
Licensed‑contractor match‑up – Connect you with trusted C‑45/C‑10 subs to pull and close the permit.
For "permit‑free" options, we outline fines and risks so you can decide fully informed.
Recent Berkeley Wins
Blade sign retrofit in Elmwood that passed first inspection.
LED cabinet install on Shattuck Avenue Downtown.
Vinyl window set for a café on College Avenue—approved under Title 20.
Berkeley Sign‑Permit FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small window or door sign?
Yes—Berkeley regulates every exterior sign, regardless of size.
Where do I file, and when is the counter open?
Berkeley Permit Service Center, 1947 Center Street, 3rd Floor. Counter hours: Monday–Thursday 8:30 am–2:30 pm (last sign‑in 2 pm).
How long does review take?
Simple wall‑sign refaces can clear over‑the‑counter in a day; design‑review cases average one to six weeks per City turnaround guidelines.
What does a Berkeley sign permit cost?
Sign Permit fee is $2.20 per $100 of sign valuation over $3,000, plus a 65% plan‑check surcharge.
How large can my sign be?
Under Title 20, standard commercial parcels allow up to 300 sq ft aggregate sign area; ground signs max at 25 ft height.
Are digital or electronic signs allowed?
Yes—brightness must not exceed 0.3 foot‑candles above ambient at 100 ft after dark; flashing or animation is prohibited.
Which signs are banned outright?
Flashing beacons, roof signs above ridgelines in residential zones, and portable signs that narrow pedestrian paths below four feet.
Do banners need a special permit?
Yes—temporary banners over 32 sq ft or displayed more than 30 days require a Seasonal Sign Permit.
Can I display an A‑frame on the sidewalk?
Only with a Minor Encroachment Permit and a City‑issued sticker; maintain a clear four‑foot pedestrian path.
Penalties for unpermitted signs?
Daily civil fines plus up to triple permit fees under Berkeley Municipal Code provisions.
Quick Links
- Title 20 – Sign Ordinance (full text)
- Apply for Signs – Permit Forms
- Permit Service Center hours & appointments
- Business Licenses – City of Berkeley
- Berkeley Fee Schedule (Planning Dept changes)
- Seasonal Ground Sign Permit
- CSLB License Lookup (C‑45 / C‑10)
Looking for more information about signage in Berkeley? Visit our comprehensive Service Areas page to learn more about our work throughout the region.