(a) A sign that existed before September 1, 1985 and that was registered not later than December 30, 1985 does not require a permit issued under this subchapter as long as the registration remains valid.     
      (b) The sign registration is valid only for the location indicated on the original registration application and only for the sign described on that application.     
      (c) The sign registration must be renewed on or before January 1 of the year of its expiration.     
      (d) The registration will automatically terminate if:      
        (1) the sign is removed for any reason other than to change the advertising;       
        (2) the registration is not renewed; or       
        (3) the sign is replaced with another structure.       
      (e) To renew the registration, the holder must:      
        (1) file a written request, on the form prescribed by the department;       
        (2) submit a renewal fee of $10 per year for a period of up to five years; and       
        (3) display the registration number on the sign structure in numerals with a minimum height of two inches and a minimum width of one inch.       
      (f) The registration allows for routine and customary repairs and maintenance as provided under §21.434 of this subchapter (relating to Repair and Maintenance), but substantial changes are not authorized for existing signs. An amended permit under §21.423 of this subchapter (relating to Amended Permit) must be obtained prior to performing any customary repairs or maintenance.     
      (g) The owner of an off-premise sign that was in existence before September 1, 1985 and not duly registered or the registration for which was timely renewed shall remove the sign at the owner's expense upon written notification by the department, unless it is an exempt sign.     
      (h) The registration of a sign may be transferred upon filing with the department, on a form prescribed by the department, a request for the transfer and payment of the transfer fee.     
     Source Note:        The provisions of this §21.407 adopted to be effective July 1, 2011, 36 TexReg 2418