Sign Services in Concord, California
Professional Signage Solutions for Concord Businesses
Snapshot: Concord's Sign‑Permit Rules
All exterior signs in Concord—whether wall‑mounted, projecting, ground, awning, illuminated, or fabric—must comply with Chapter 18.180 (Signs) of the Concord Development Code and obtain a Sign Permit before installation.
Licensed Contractors
Although property owners may submit applications themselves, most Sign Permits proceed faster when filed by a CSLB‑licensed C‑45 sign contractor or C‑10 electrician via the City's Virtual Permit Center process.
Business Registration
No Sign Permit can be issued unless you hold a valid San Concord Business Tax Certificate—Concord's equivalent of a business license. You can apply or renew online via the City's Permit Pal tool.
Services We Offer in Concord
Custom Sign Fabrication – Specializing in window vinyl, interior wall graphics, vehicle wraps, ADA plaques, wayfinding systems, menu boards, blade & hanging signs, plexiglass inserts, and storefront branding.
Professional Installation – Skilled crews install wall‑mounted, ground‑mounted, Dibond panels, and drop‑ship sign products in Downtown, Todos Santos Plaza, Monument Corridor, and Sun Valley.
Sign Repair & Maintenance – From cleaning and resurfacing to removal of outdated signs and fabrication of precise replacements.
Permit Guidance – End‑to‑end support preparing applications, verifying code compliance, and liaising directly with Concord Planning and Building staff.
Our Concord Advantage
- Deep expertise in Chapter 18.180 Sign Code requirements.
- Virtual Permit Center ("Permit Pal") available 24/7 for applications, status checks, and fee estimates.
- Transparent fee structure—no hidden plan‑check surcharges despite annual fee updates.
- Experienced network of CSLB‑licensed contractors to pull and close permits seamlessly.
- Accelerated document turnaround in line with Concord's service targets.
How We Help (No License? No Problem)
Pre‑flight code check – Validate size, height, lighting, and zoning limits against CDC §18.180.100 before fabrication.
Document prep – Complete the online Sign Permit form and submit required elevation drawings via Virtual Permit Center.
Permit liaison – Track your application through the City's Accela ePermit portal and flag any plan‑check comments.
Licensed‑contractor match‑up – Connect you with a trusted C‑45/C‑10 sub to officially pull and close the permit.
Permit‑free options – If you consider proceeding without a permit, we'll outline fines, daily civil penalties, and up‑to‑triple fee risks under CDC §18.180.185.
Recent Concord Wins
Blade‑sign retrofit on South Main Street—approved on first submittal.
Illuminated cabinet install at Willow Pass Road within code limits.
Vinyl window graphics for a café on Treat Boulevard, permitted and installed in one week.
Concord Sign‑Permit FAQ
Do I need a permit for a small window or door decal?
Yes—Concord regulates all exterior signs, regardless of size, except certain real‑estate signs.
Where do I file, and what are the hours?
Permit Pal (Virtual Permit Center) is accessible online. In‑person services at the Building Division (1950 Parkside Dr, MS/51) are Mon–Fri 8 am–12 pm & 1 pm–4 pm (closed holidays).
How long does review take?
Building Permits (including signs) are typically issued within 60 calendar days of a complete application.
What does a Sign Permit cost?
Fees follow the City's Fees & Charges Schedule—viewable in the Codes & Ordinances section—without additional surcharges.
How large can my sign be?
Size limits and aggregate area calculations are defined in CDC §18.180.100.
Are digital or electronic signs allowed?
Electronic message centers must comply with CDC Chapter 18.180 requirements; flashing or animated signage is generally prohibited.
Which signs are banned outright?
Pennants, streamers, balloons, inflatable devices, flags, or any sign extending above roofs or parapets are prohibited under CDC §18.180.120.
Do banners need a special permit?
Temporary banners for special events are allowed up to 30 days; all others are prohibited under CDC §18.180.120.
Can I display an A‑frame on the sidewalk?
Sidewalk signs require a Minor Encroachment Permit and must maintain a clear 4 ft pedestrian path.
Penalties for unpermitted signs?
Unpermitted signs can incur daily civil fines and up to triple standard permit fees under CDC §18.180.185.
Quick Links
- Chapter 18.180 – Signs (full text)
- Permit Center (Virtual Permit Center)
- Planning Permits & Permit Pal
- Building Division Contact & Hours
- Fees & Charges Schedule (PDF)
- Permits & Business License Info
- Real‑Estate Sign Exemptions
- Temporary Banner Permits
- How to Apply for a Building Permit
- Accela ePermit Portal
Looking for more information about signage in Concord? Visit our comprehensive Service Areas page to learn more about our work throughout the region.