Rocco,
We at Sign Innovation have manufactured and Installed signage at malls in every state and Canada. It's in the thousands of locations. Every location is different depending on the local jurisdictions. We keep a spread sheet on every location. Its not uncommon to ask the mall personnel for advise, there the first people to ask. Then check with the local officials. and finally check with the stores general contractor. compare all of there answers because once you may think that you have all the permit bases covered, something can still pop up and hold up a store opening. I guess you need to be aware that there are many different angles that permits and inspections can come at you. As a sign guy (" the last one in" ) it always seems to be your fault when electrical isn't pulled, but the general was to have it covered or its your responsibility to call in the final on the generals permit. Always make shore there's a building permit pulled because if a sign permit or electrical or just a inspection is needed, they need to a-sign a location and paper trail for your permits.
Rocco, working in the northeast I know got most of this figured out Its a lot tougher there than most places, watch out for Florida, Chicago ,California. some Ohio areas
Tks ED