What do I need to submit for a Nantucket HDC sign permit?

You need a completed application form, a site plan showing sign location, scaled drawings at 1/4 scale showing exact dimensions and lettering, color samples for all colors used, and photographs of the proposed sign location. The application fee is $50 per sign.

What scale do sign drawings need to be for the HDC?

Drawings must be at 1/4 scale and show exact dimensions, lettering style, colors, and mounting method. Sign construction should not begin until HDC approval is received.

When is the HDC sign application deadline?

Applications must be submitted to HDC staff by the Monday prior to the Sign Advisory Council (SAC) meeting. The SAC meets Tuesdays at 9 a.m. at the HDC office, 2 Fairgrounds Road, Nantucket.

How much is the HDC sign application fee?

The application fee is $50 per sign, payable by cash or check made out to the Town of Nantucket.

Do I need to attend the SAC meeting after submitting my application?

Yes. Applicants should attend the Sign Advisory Council meeting as revisions or additional information may be requested. The HDC must act within 60 days of application.

Nantucket Historic District Commission

Sign Application Checklist

Certificate of Appropriateness — Required Submission Materials

Nantucket Island, MA

Download Sign Checklist Here →

All business signs on Nantucket require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Historic District Commission before mounting. Use this checklist to make sure your application is complete before submitting. Incomplete applications will delay review.

Submit materials to HDC staff by the Monday prior to the SAC meeting. The Sign Advisory Council meets Tuesdays at 9 a.m. at the HDC office, 2 Fairgrounds Road, Nantucket. Application fee: $50 per sign.

Application Form

Completed HDC sign application form
Property address and applicant contact information
Name and contact of sign maker / contractor

Site Plan

Site plan or photograph showing proposed sign location on building or property
Indication of sign placement height and setback

Drawings

Scale drawings at 1/4 scale
Exact dimensions (length × width × thickness)
Lettering style, size, and layout
Mounting method and hardware details

Materials & Colors

Color samples for all paint colors used
Material specification (solid wood recommended; no plastic, particleboard, or baked enamel on metal)
Finish specification (painted surfaces required; 23K gold leaf if gold lettering desired — no gold paint)

Photographs

Current photographs of proposed sign location on building
Photos of adjacent storefronts or neighboring signs if relevant

Fee

$50 application fee per sign
Cash or check made payable to: Town of Nantucket

Submission

Submit all materials to HDC staff by Monday prior to the SAC meeting
Sign Advisory Council meets Tuesdays at 9 a.m., HDC office, 2 Fairgrounds Road, Nantucket
Attend the SAC meeting — revisions or additional info may be requested
Do NOT construct sign until HDC approval is received

Important

Do not construct or mount your sign until you have received written approval from the HDC. Any changes from the approved design require a new application. The HDC must act within 60 days of a completed application.

Related Resources

HDC Sign Rules & Guidelines →Download the Sign Book PDF →Order a custom Nantucket sign →