One of the first things you need to do as part of any project involving Long Island awnings is apply for a permit. You may need multiple permits, depending on what kind of Long Island awnings you plan to install, and exactly where.
Whether you’re located in Brooklyn or Queens or one of the towns in Nassau or Suffolk Counties, there’s paperwork in your future if you’re putting up Long Island awnings, residential or commercial. If you think you can just skip this step, think again, because failure to obtain the proper permits could land you a fine.
Here are three tips to help you avoid permit pitfalls as you begin the process of putting upLong Islandawnings.
1. Be aware of what permits you might need for Long Island awnings.
- Building permit – most Long Island awnings attach to the exterior of your commercial building, so you’ll need a building permit because you’re modifying the structure.
- Illuminated sign permit – if your sign includes lighting, you’ll probably need an additional permit for that, and an electrical inspection, too.
- Sign permit – most jurisdictions consider a “sign” to be anything with a message on it – words, individual letters or numbers, graphic designs such as decorative illustration or your logo. So if your Long island awnings will include your name and address – and they certainly should — they will count as a sign, too.
Sign and building permits are accompanied by regulations that outline what’s allowed and what isn’t forLong Islandawnings. Those rules might cover dimensions and overall area, placement, materials, even colors or visual content.
You also have to follow zoning regulations that apply to your specific location. Different business districts within NYC’s boroughs have varying zoning requirements, and of course other communities have zone-specific rules, too. These regulations typically address issues such as whether or not you can advertise a business in a residential area if you’re a home-based business.
2. Hook up with a company that’s expert at fabricating Long island awnings.
While it’s important to educate yourself about the official permits you’ll need to install your awning, you don’t have to comb through pages of fine print to ensure you have all the details. Choosing a well-established professional awning company that has experience working in your area can take permit-related worry and headaches off your shoulders.
A reputable awning company probably already knows the rules that apply to your Long Island awnings, including building and zoning codes, special business district standards or other location-specific rules. And they certainly know who to contact if they have questions.
They can obtain permits on your behalf, acting as your liaison with local officials. It’s one of their regular services, as part of designing and manufacturing your awning. Even so, have them explain the requirements, so you can be a better-informed business owner.
3. Listen to your Long Island awnings expert.
Permitting is just the beginning, but it sets the stage for the fun part. Your awning professional can guide you through the entire design and production process, to ensure your Long Island awnings give you many years of attractive, durable service. You don’t have to be a structural engineer or a talented graphic designer any more than you have to be a permit specialist.
You just need to know what you expect your Long Island awnings to do for your business. That can be a tall order in itself, because awnings can play many roles. They help people find your business. Promote your brand and products or services 24/7 – from up close and from down the street. Dress up even the ugliest exterior, subtly or with a big splash. Provide shade and shelter from the weather.
Now you know how easy it is to avoid permit pitfalls and wind up with outstanding Long Island awnings that will help you grow your business.
Photo Credit: jlwelsh via Flickr