Illuminated signs do exactly what they say on the tin – they light up to increase visibility and attract attention.
Choosing illuminated signage over traditional signage has many benefits. Illuminated signs stand out, helping businesses gain visibility and make more of an impact on a crowded high street, particularly at night or in low-light conditions.
If you’re considering illuminated signage for your business, you may be wondering if there are any restrictions as to where this type of signage can be installed.
In this article, we’ll learn more about illuminated signs and answer the question, “Does illuminated signage require planning permission?”
How do illuminated signs work?
Illuminated signs contain a light source, usually an LED, to illuminate the sign and enhance its visibility.
There are various types of illuminated signs, including backlit signs, halo-lit signs, neon signs, flexbox signs, and lightbox signs – each type of sign works slightly differently. Let’s look at how some of the most popular types of illuminated signs work:
- Lightbox signs consist of a sign within a box with a transparent front panel and an internal light source.
- Flexbox: Flexbox signs feature a flexible PVC banner fascia stretched across the front of a lightbox and then backlit.
- Neon signs: Modern neon signs have faux neon lights that use LED technology to replicate the look of retro neon lights. The LEDs are embedded inside acrylic tubes to light up the sign.
- Halo-lit signs: Halo-lit signs illuminate the area behind the sign’s letters or logo, lighting the edges of the elements to create a halo effect.
Do you need planning permission for illuminated signs?
If you want to install illuminated signage on the exterior of your property, then you will need to apply for planning permission through the Planning Portal online. The application will ask you to supply information about the sign’s size, materials, lighting specifications, and placement.
Your local authority will then assess the impact that your proposed signage would have on public safety, light pollution, and the local environment before deciding whether to grant planning permission.
If you fail to gain planning permission before installing illuminated signage outside, you could be ordered to remove the sign and pay a fine.
Planning permission is not required for indoor illuminated signage.
Illuminated signage from iBrand Signs
At iBrand Signs, we have been designing and manufacturing illuminated signs for over 28 years. We pride ourselves on always keeping pace with the newest and most innovative technologies, allowing us to offer our customers the most impactful signage at the most cost-effective prices.
If you need help designing an illuminated sign or choosing the right type of sign or lighting technique for your business, contact our team to discuss your requirements. You can call us on 01925 823 032 or fill out a contact form online to request a free quote, and we’ll get back to you soon!