Do I need permission to put up a sign?

For most people who start up their own small business, it is the fulfilment of a dream. Doing so allows you to be your own boss and ensures that you will be the one to benefit from all the hard work you put in. It is hard work too – and nobody should be under any illusions about that. What makes that and the long hours worthwhile is that you are building something for yourself and your family.

Part of the job of starting up a business is attending to all legal obligations. This means completing registrations for tax purposes and applying for planning permission where necessary. This blog will look at the issue of business signage and whether planning permission is needed for it.

Do I need planning permission for a business sign?

In the vast majority of cases, planning permission will be needed for a business sign. The only types of signs that are exempt from it are very small ones – think the kind of discreet engraved plaque that some companies add to the front of their business headquarters.

This kind of sign is fairly low in visual impact, making it most suitable for well-established firms that wish to project an aura of classiness and dependability.

Most new businesses will need a sign that is bigger and more eye-catching – particularly if they are in the retail sector. Therefore, almost all exterior business signs will need planning permission before they can legally be put up. If the building you will be using as the base for your company is a listed one, you may have to apply for listed building consent too, before you can install a sign.

How big can a sign be without planning permission?

The basic rule is that an outdoor sign must be no larger than 0.3 metres square if you want to avoid planning permission obligations. It is a rule that you should take seriously during the design, manufacturing and installation of your sign. Your local authority will expect you to know it – and to abide by it.

If you put up a larger sign without applying for permission, you can face legal penalties. These usually involve the levying of a fine and the removal of your sign. The additional expense and aggravation is really not worth it, because the process of getting permission is generally straightforward.

Do these rules apply for all signs?

Those rules concerning planning permission are only applicable when it comes to outdoor signage.

The situation is quite different for indoor signs. There is generally no need to apply for planning permission if you want to install a sign inside your shop or business premises. This does not mean that you have no legal obligations in that area though.

You will be expected to install certain types of health and safety signage. Which types you need to have will depend on the kind of business you are running – and how much risk it poses to employees and the general public. The wisest course of action will be to find out all you need to know about UK health and safety signage before you launch your business.

Are there any other important factors?

The 0.3 metres squared size rule applies to all outdoor signs except for illuminated ones. If your sign features any kind of lighting (neon lights, LED lights, incandescent bulbs) you will need planning permission. This will be the case even if the sign is very small.

The main reason for this is because the lights have the potential to be disruptive to people living in the area. This rule leads some companies and shops to avoid illuminated signage, but that is an overreaction. Lit up signs can be highly effective in getting your business noticed, and the planning permission process is not difficult.

When it comes to temporary outdoor signage – for example, pull-up banners on the pavement or billboards – the rules can vary. It is usually down to their size and how long you want to keep them up for. If you plan to display signage on public property or on a road or pavement, you should check with your local authority first.

How do I get planning permission for a sign?

The standard method of applying for planning permission is to contact your local council. In addition to size and lighting, their decision will be influenced by the quality of the design and the safety of the proposed installation.

For signage installation in Manchester that meets all necessary safety standards, contact Ainsley Signs today.