Do Commercial Signs Require Planning Permission?
Whether commercial signs require planning permission depends on several factors, including local zoning regulations, the size and type of sign, and the specific location where the sign will be placed. Planning permission requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another, and it’s essential to check with your local planning or zoning authority to determine the rules and regulations that apply in your area. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Size and Type of Sign: Many jurisdictions have specific regulations regarding the size and type of commercial signs that can be installed without planning permission. Small signs, such as nameplates or signs on shop windows, may not require planning permission in some areas. However, larger signs or those with special features (e.g., illuminated signs, billboards) are more likely to require permission.
- Location: The location of the sign can also affect whether planning permission is required. Signs placed in designated commercial or business zones may have different rules than those placed in residential areas or historic districts.
- Design and Aesthetics: Some jurisdictions have guidelines for the design and aesthetics of commercial signs, especially in areas with specific architectural or historic preservation considerations. Compliance with these guidelines may be a requirement for obtaining planning permission.
- Temporary Signs: Temporary signs, such as banners or signs for special events, may have different regulations than permanent signs. Temporary signs may be subject to specific time limits and restrictions.
- Signage on Vehicles: In some areas, signage on vehicles, such as company logos and advertising, may be regulated differently than signs attached to buildings. This is known as “vehicle signage” or “mobile advertising.”
- Signage in Home-Based Businesses: If you run a business from your home, there may be restrictions on the size and type of signs you can use to promote your business, even if it’s a home-based business.
- Historic Districts: Signs in historic districts are often subject to more stringent regulations to preserve the historic character of the area. Planning permission may be required for any sign changes in these districts.
- Illuminated Signs: Illuminated signs, such as neon signs or LED displays, may have specific regulations related to lighting, brightness, and energy efficiency.
To determine whether planning permission is required for a commercial sign, it’s essential to contact your local planning or zoning authority or consult the municipal code and regulations that apply to your specific location. Violating signage regulations can result in fines and the removal of the sign, so it’s crucial to ensure compliance with local rules before installing or modifying any commercial signage.
Making business signs noticeable is crucial for attracting customers and effectively promoting your business. Here are several tips to help ensure your business signs grab attention and leave a lasting impression:
- Choose the Right Location:
- Place your signs where they will be easily seen by your target audience. Consider factors like foot traffic, vehicle traffic, and visibility from nearby roads or intersections.
- Size and Legibility:
- Ensure that the size of your sign is appropriate for its location. It should be large enough to be easily read from a distance. Use legible fonts and avoid overly decorative or complex styles.
- Contrast and Color:
- Use high-contrast colors to make your sign stand out. Contrast between text and background helps with readability. Choose colors that align with your brand and are visually appealing.
- Simplicity and Clarity:
- Keep your message concise and to the point. A cluttered sign with too much information can overwhelm viewers. Focus on the essential details, such as your business name, logo, and a brief message.
- Eye-Catching Design:
- Invest in professional design or graphics that are visually appealing and align with your brand identity. A well-designed sign can make a significant difference in attracting attention.
- Lighting:
- If possible, use lighting to illuminate your sign, especially for signs that are displayed at night. Backlit signs, neon signs, or LED lighting can make your sign visible in low-light conditions.
- Use Imagery:
- Incorporate relevant images, graphics, or your logo to enhance the visual appeal of your sign. A well-placed image can help convey your message and brand identity.
- Motion and Animation:
- In some cases, animated or moving signs can be attention-grabbing. However, use motion sparingly, as overly animated signs can become distracting.
- Position and Placement:
- Make sure your sign is positioned at eye level and at a comfortable viewing angle. Ensure it’s not obstructed by other objects or foliage.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Keep your sign clean, well-maintained, and free from damage. Faded or damaged signs can give a negative impression of your business.
- Consistency:
- Use consistent branding and design elements across all your signage to create a unified and easily recognizable brand image.
- Local Regulations:
- Be aware of local regulations and permit requirements for outdoor signs. Ensure that your sign complies with zoning and sign codes.
- Social Media and QR Codes:
- Consider including social media handles or QR codes on your sign to direct viewers to your online presence for additional information or promotions.
- Test and Get Feedback:
- Before finalizing your sign design, gather feedback from employees, customers, or focus groups. Test the sign’s visibility from different angles and distances.
Remember that the effectiveness of your business sign is a combination of design, placement, and message. The goal is to create a sign that not only grabs attention but also conveys your brand and message clearly to your target audience.
“A tagline needs to say a lot with a little. For example, at Astonish, our tagline is “The Best Friend of the Local Agent.” It speaks to our audience and says a ton. It says we care, we are here, we will support you in your time of need, we will celebrate with you in your time of success, a friend of yours is a friend of ours, and an enemy of yours is our enemy, too. That’s a powerful tagline!” —
Make sure your tagline provides a picture of what you do. Branding is all about clarity. Most people try to be too cute. For example, Lexus’s old tagline, “Pursuit of Perfection,” connects with their audience of high achievers who are literally pursuing perfection. What Lexus is signaling is that their car provides the visual evidence that you as the driver are pursuing perfection.” —
“What’s your story? What gets you emotional when you think about what you do? Whatever it is, that’s your positioning. Your logo and tagline should communicate precisely that feeling. Also, get a great firm working at your side. Our investors, Breakaway Innovation Group, helped us tremendously with our new branding.” —