Strict planning laws regulate the use of signage and advertising for commercial purposes in the UK. These guidelines are intended to make sure that signs and ads don’t endanger public safety, create needless visual clutter, or have a negative impact on the environment. For compliance and to stay out of trouble with the law, it is crucial to navigate the complexity of obtaining planning approval for company signage.
Temporary exemptions and notices
It is permissible to install some signs without official planning authorisation, especially temporary signs. Temporary notices, such those promoting community activities like concerts and street parties, may be put up without permission as long as they are no larger than 0.6 square meters. Generally speaking, estate agents’ boards—which are subject to different rules—should not be larger than 0.5 square meters.
Nine categories of advertisements are also not subject to strict planning control. These include those that are a part of the structure of a building, those that are shown on enclosed land, and those that are seen on moving automobiles. Advertisements within a structure and signage on gas stations or vending machines are likewise not under the planning authority’s jurisdiction.
Conditions for Business Signage in general
There are five essential requirements that must always be fulfilled by companies looking to show signs. Whether or not planning clearance is needed, certain requirements still apply:
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- To maintain a satisfactory visual standard, the signage needs to be kept clean.
- To avoid risks, it needs to be maintained in a secure environment.
- Consent from the site owner is required for the signage to be displayed. If the sign is erected on a highway or public property, the Highway Authority is also included.
- Official road, rail, river, or aircraft signs must not be obscured, distracted from, or made more difficult to read by signage. It shouldn’t put the form of transportation at danger for accidents.
- If the planning authority requests it, the signage must be taken down.
Signage types that are allowed without obtaining planning permission
There are sixteen sorts of advertisements that can be placed without obtaining official consent, even though many types of signage require planning clearance. These are subject to some limitations, though, like the display’s duration, maximum height, and lighting restrictions. Class 5 of approved signage, for instance, permits companies to advertise their own products or services on their property as long as specific guidelines are followed, including letter height, signage height, and illumination status.
When is it necessary to obtain planning permission?
Many types of company signage still require planning permission, even with the numerous exclusions. Generally speaking, planning permission is needed for the following kinds of advertisements:
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- Posters, irrespective of their positioning and dimensions.
- Most of the time, illuminated signs are used, particularly those that could distract motorists.
- Signs with a top edge higher than 4.6 meters from the ground, such as fascia signs and projection signs.
- Advertisements on a building’s gable ends, which frequently demand closer examination because of their prominence.
Enforcement action, including fines and the requirement to remove the signage, may follow failure to acquire planning permission for signage that fits into these categories. For this reason, before installing any business signage, it is best to speak with the local planning authority first.
Advice regarding outdoor advertising
The government offers comprehensive information for anyone looking for clarification on England’s laws governing outdoor advertising and signage:
These manuals describe particular rules, provide examples, and explain how advertisements are controlled. They are helpful for companies negotiating planning obligations even though they are not legal papers. These resources are applicable to England; policies differ throughout the United Kingdom. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are all subject to different laws. To make sure that regional regulations are being followed, business owners can speak with their local planning authorities. Businesses can avoid legal problems and make sure signage complies with planning requirements by being aware of these guidelines.
Last things to think about
Maintaining compliance and averting possible enforcement action require that business signage abide by planning requirements. Owners of businesses should become aware with the standards, exemptions, and restrictions that apply to their particular signage needs. It is advised to check with the local planning authorities or obtain professional guidance in cases where there is doubt.
You may reach our staff at Poppy Signs by phone at 01257 241 222 or by email at [email protected] for more help choosing the right signage for your company, including material options and pricing. Our professionals can assist you in creating signage that satisfies legal and aesthetic requirements.
