If you own a business in Portland Maine, you may want an outdoor sign or awning to attract and help customers. Signs can be simple or elaborate, carved wood or electric, mounted or hanging. But all signs need a City of Portland sign permit from City Hall. You can find the application at the Citizen Self Service portal. Most sign permits cost $30 plus $2.00 per square foot. Sidewalk sign permits cost $25 plus $0.20 per square foot.
You’ll need to show proof of insurance for a Portland Maine sign permit. Your insurance policy must name the City of Portland Maine as additional insured with respect to the sign.
Why Does the City of Portland Maine Need to be an Additional Insured for My Sign Permit?
When you apply for your permit, you agree to be 100% responsible for your sign. This is called a “hold harmless” agreement. The city wants proof that you have insurance to back that up. They want to know that your insurance will pay if your sign injures someone or damages property. That’s one reason they require to be named as an Additional Insured on your business liability policy with respect to the sign.
See also: Adding an Additional Insured to Your Insurance Policy
What Does an Additional Insured Do?
When you add an additional insured on your business liability policy, it does two things.
- Extends coverage to protect them under your insurance policy
- Notifies them if your policy cancels for any reason
How to Get Proof of Sign Insurance
Noyes Hall & Allen Insurance can help you show proof of insurance for your Portland Maine business. Often, you must show this before you even open your business or move into the location. Sign insurance isn’t expensive. It’s often part of another policy, such as a package policy or a businessowners policy.
What Does Business Sign Insurance Do?
Sign insurance can protect
- The value of the sign against vandalism, wind or other damage. The city doesn’t require this.
- Your liability if your sign injures someone or damages property. That’s the part that your Maine town or city requires.
If you’re opening a business in Portland Maine and want to know more about insurance coverage and cost, contact a Noyes Hall & Allen Insurance agent. We offer a choice of many top Maine business insurance companies. We can help you find the right insurance for your business and budget. We’re independent and committed to you.
Helpful Link: City of Portland Maine Citizen Self Service Portal Login