Do you have planning permission for your business’ sign?

It’s a great moment when you finally get to see your business’ name above the shop window or out front, guiding people towards your office. But it might not be there for long if you don’t have the planning permission to put it there. So we’re here with a few things you need to be aware of.

How important is business signage?

It goes without saying, Business signage is important for making a good impression with your customers, your signage could even be the reason they’ve entered your store!

Most shops, factories and commercial properties will have some sort of signage to identify the business that abodes there, as well as signs for functional reasons, like identifying where customers can park.

People need to know where to find you and signage is the obvious way to do this, but what signs require planning permission and what else do you need to think about?

What are the requirements?

Firstly, any illuminated or business sign that is bigger than 0.3 square metres may need planning permission. So, unless you’re happy to just have a little plaque next to your front door to identify you, this is important for you.

Planning regulations can vary depending on location, so it’s always worthwhile checking with your local authority when planning your businesses signage.

Can business signs be removed?

Local councils have the authority to decide on these matters and to even take down impermissible signs, so don’t go putting anything up without permission or you may be punished. If you lease your businesses premises you many need to consult with your landlord to see if they allow for signage to be fitted, information regarding this could also be found in your lease agreement.

What are the 5 ‘standard conditions’?

The Department for Communities and Local Government state these five ‘standard conditions’ that your signage must adhere to:

  1. They must be kept clean
  2. They must be safe
  3. You must have permission from the land owner on which the sign is located
  4. The sign cannot obscure transport signage or routes, or make them hazardous. So don’t block road signs and stop motorists from being able to see oncoming traffic.
  5. If the authorities do ask you to remove a sign, you must do it safely.

Having an identifiable premises is important and can be a terrific way to signpost your business within the community but sticking to the regulations shouldn’t be forgotten. It doesn’t take long, if you have queries just call your local planning office.

NB: This is only a summary of possible issues and should not be considered an official guide. See the official government guidelines here.

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Want to increase your brand visibility and attract more customers? We provide a range of commercial signage services, including industrial signage, shop signage, vehicle signage and health and safety signage. For more information regarding our business signage services, please contact us today!

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