This column was originally published in Sign Builder Illustrated‘s July 2024 edition.
Lately ISA has seen state-level licensing issues becoming trickier to navigate for sign and graphics companies. This can take on any number of forms, but a few trends have emerged—as have a few possible solutions.
We learned a few things recently when ISA, Southern States Sign Association and some highly involved and connected members were able to change Florida law. This removed a major headache for sign and graphics companies with electrical sign licenses who were prevented from installing non-electrical signs.
First, here are some of the trends we encounter:
- Vague wording of laws lead to different interpretations. State laws may leave some details up to communities to interpret. And that may change when a new person comes in; what once was OK now no longer works. It can be difficult to keep up. ISA is currently working on one such licensing issue in a state. What has long been in practice is open to a new interpretation
- It can be hard to find the right information. Regulatory code is often buried in a subsection of a subsection of a subsection.
- Understanding the scope of the license. In the recent Florida case, regulators felt that electrical sign companies should not be able to install non-electrical signs. That was a relatively simple fix in the code. But it required spelling it out. Sometimes other nuances aren’t so clear.
A sign company may think, “I have an electrical license and the equipment. Why can’t I just change out the parking lot lighting while I’m here?” Depending upon the state, that may require an altogether different type of license.
Holding a specialty license, instead of a general contractor license, may prevent you from subcontracting out installation work, depending on the state, too.
4. Can I even get a license? In most states, relevant work experience is required for an electrical license. Someone new to the industry may need to hire somebody who has a license. It can be a real barrier to entry.
Whether new to the industry or just frustrated trying to meet new or changing expectations, ISA can help sign and graphics companies navigate state licensing issues. We’ve learned a few things along the way, and recommend sign professionals:
- Work with experts at the state level. That’s the great thing about the connections made through ISA and ISA Affiliated Associations. Our members have connections who can make things happen. With the recent Florida case, ISA tried through the regular avenues and honestly got nowhere. It took a member company who knew someone with connections at the Florida state legislature to get something done. That is really the power of an association at work. Language inserted into the bill solved our industry’s issue. Without a member bringing it to our attention, and ISA, Southern States Sign Association and our members pooling our resources together, we would not have been successful.
- Reach out to ISA for support. While we may not always have the answer, we might have the resources to help. Our advocacy team can help dig into state code, provide guidance and connect you to valuable resources.
If you are having licensing issues in your state, reach out to me, [email protected] to see how ISA can help.
