The Important Difference Between Awnings, Canopies, and Marquees

Structures like awnings, canopies, and marquees have a lot in common. However, when it comes to permitting, they couldn’t be more different. These quirks can lead to confusion among architects, builders, and clients. And that confusion can lead to delays, denials, and more stress than your team needs to take on.

To help you avoid these struggles, we’ve created this guide on the features, regulatory requirements, and practical implications of awnings, canopies, and marquees.

Awnings

Awnings are typically fabric-based, framed projections attached to the exteriors of buildings. They’re not just decorative. Their purposes include shielding patrons from weather and offering businesses a place to share their branding.
You’ll usually encounter one of two types of awnings: fixed and retractable. Fixed awnings are permanent structures offering consistent protection and visual identity. Retractable awnings, on the other hand, offer flexibility, allowing businesses or homeowners to adjust their coverage based on weather conditions or aesthetic desires.

The permit process for awnings involves the Department of Buildings (DOB) for structural approvals and potentially the Landmarks Preservation Commission if the building is historically designated. Architects must ensure their designs also comply with size, material, and placement regulations to avoid post-installation complications.

Installing both fixed and retractable awnings will require a professional sign hanger and filing an Architectural Alteration (Alt) 2 application. You’ll also need permits for replacing or repairing significantly damaged frames and armatures and for recladding or retaining existing awnings. On the other hand, no permit is necessary for things like seasonal removal and reinstallation of awnings approved by the Landmark Preservation Commission or minor repairs or adjustments to the awning's rolling or folding arm mechanism.

Canopies

Canopies are similar to awnings in that they provide shade, a space for branding, and aesthetic value. However, they often project further into the public space and may require additional structural support. This means that their permitting process is a little more complex than that of awnings.
The design of a canopy must consider load-bearing capacities, especially in a city known for heavy snow and rain. The materials, dimensions, and anchoring methods must all adhere to stringent safety standards while complementing the building's aesthetic.

So what does this mean for your permitting? If the canopy’s support will be located in the public sidewalk or public space, the canopy will require review and permits from NYC Department of Transportation (DOT), along with DOB. You’ll want to submit the Canopy Authorization Application to the DOT. Within the DOT, the Highway Inspection and Quality Assurance (HIQA) office reviews canopy applications. If HIQA authorizes the application, the next steps involve applying for Street Opening and Canopy Maintenance Permits from the Permit Office. When you’ve got your permits ready, a final inspection will make sure that the canopy is compliant. One extra step you might have to think about is if the canopy is to be installed in a historic district, you’ll need approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC).

Marquees

Marquees are typically associated with theaters or cinemas but are increasingly used by other businesses for their visibility and protective qualities. These are permanent structures and require detailed planning to get your permitting right.

Marquees undergo a unique permitting process, reflecting their blend of architectural, structural, and electrical components. This complexity is heightened when marquees are illuminated or feature digital displays, necessitating additional electrical permits and safety inspections.

While commonly considered the same as awnings, marquees hold a distinct classification according to the DOB. In terms of permitting, marquees necessitate a separate filing. If it’s illuminated, your marquee also requires an electrical permit and a licensed electrician.

The Consequences of Misclassification

The implications of incorrectly classifying these structures are much more than administrative annoyances. They can have serious impacts on project timelines, costs, and legal standing.

• Project Delays: Misclassification can lead to the submission of incorrect permits, resulting in project holdups and delays. These often snowball into significant scheduling conflicts and increased labor and rental costs.
• Compliance Risks: Each structure has specific regulations concerning safety, aesthetics, and public interaction. Misidentifying a structure can lead to non-compliance, attracting fines, mandated modifications, or, in extreme cases, legal action.
• Design and Functional Misalignments: Misclassification can also lead to designs that are out of line with their intended functions or client needs. This ultimately impacts user comfort, safety, and overall satisfaction with the final product.
• Reputational Damage: Architects and firms risk their reputation by failing to accurately classify and permit structures. In a field where reputation is non-negotiable, this can lead to a loss of trust, future business, and professional standing.

Wrapping Up

Don’t let these structures’ apparent similarities fool you. You could be on the hook for the consequences of permitting mistakes. When in doubt, do your research and contact a professional to help with your project. A few questions asked could save you a mountain of unnecessary stress. And remember, our team is here to help.