Determine when a pole sign footing needs a stamped engineering design

Steps

1. Recognize that IBC Appendix H generally requires engineered footings for pole/ground signs above a locally set height or weight threshold, not a single national number.
2. Pull the specific jurisdiction's building code amendment for sign height/weight exemption thresholds before assuming a stamped foundation design is or isn't required.
3. For any sign exceeding the local exemption, obtain a geotechnical or soil-bearing assumption to size the footing, including a site-specific soils report where the jurisdiction requires one.
4. Route the footing design into the sealed structural submittal package required at permit application.
5. Confirm frost depth and soil-bearing assumptions with the local building department, since these are locally set and directly affect footing depth.