‘X’ logo installed atop Twitter building, spurring San Francisco to investigate permit violation

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San Francisco city authorities have initiated a probe into the large ‘X’ symbol, which was unexpectedly positioned on the top of the building formerly recognized as Twitter’s headquarters. This comes as Elon Musk, the owner of the building, is working on rebranding the social media giant.

According to city officials, there are specific regulations necessitating permits for the modification of signage or symbols on buildings, or for the construction of new signs, which are in place for aesthetic and safety considerations.

This situation arose when on Monday, local police prevented workers from eliminating the familiar bird logo of the brand from the side of the building. The area hadn’t been adequately cordoned off to ensure pedestrian safety in case of potential falling debris.

Patrick Hannan, the spokesperson for the Department of Building Inspection, clarified that any new symbols or letters replacing the previous ones would require permits. This would ensure that the additions adhere to the historical integrity of the building and are safely affixed.

Hannan, on Friday, also noted that erecting signs on buildings requires permits. “The installation of this sign also calls for planning review and approval. Consequently, the city is filing a complaint and instigating an investigation,” he stated via email.

Musk, who bought the social media platform for $44 billion the previous year, revealed a new ‘X’ symbol as a replacement for Twitter’s iconic blue bird. The ‘X’ began to feature on Twitter’s desktop version from Monday.

Also being Tesla’s CEO, Musk exhibits a marked fascination with the letter ‘X’. This is evident in his renaming Twitter’s corporate identity to ‘X Corp’ after its acquisition in October, and even in the name of one of his children which includes the symbol ‘X’. This name is a unique combination of various letters and symbols.

On Friday afternoon, a technician was observed making alterations to the sign before departing from the scene.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elon Musk’s Twitter Rebranding

More about Elon Musk’s Twitter Rebranding

• San Francisco’s Building and Planning Regulations
• Elon Musk’s Purchase of Twitter
• Elon Musk’s Fascination with ‘X’
• Twitter’s Original Logo