How to Obey Sign Ordinances

Sign ordinances are laws, at the local and state level, that regulate the characteristics of business signage in a community. These ordinances are based on community views on sign aesthetics and the need for uniformity in signage. In order to obey sign ordinances in your community, you need to know the authorizing bodies and typical restrictions on company signs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Follow Local and State Guidelines for Signage

1. Understand the importance of sign ordinances to community beautification efforts. Local conservation groups and community-improvement organizations try to limit the size of signs, preventing them from becoming a distractive nuisance.
2. Speak with your city council about regulations restricting the use of signs attached to your buildings. Each community has ordinances that regulate the size, placement and content of signs that may be unique from other communities. In order to obey local laws, you should approach the city council with any unusual signage requests.
3. Consult with your state's highway department about billboards and logos placed on highway exit signs. While private property owners can place any advertisement they want on a billboard, most highway departments help regulate the size of billboards to avoid distractions to drivers. Highway department officials can also help you resize your logo to meet exit-sign standards and promote your business effectively.
4. Make sure you obey signage ordinances that regulate the placement of private signs adjacent to public signs. Your signs cannot block those indicating street names, speed limits and traffic warnings because of public safety concerns.
5. Avoid violation of city laws that govern the color and design of business signs. While some communities allow business owners freedom to choose their design aesthetics, most cities prohibit bright colors or flashing lights to avoid traffic issues. Likewise, city councils will often prevent business owners from creating signage that is lewd or inappropriate for children.
6. Learn about the National Scenic Byways Program. Featured on Byways.org, it is devoted to protecting highways and waterways from over development, including excessive signage (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Clear any trees, plants or other objects that may be obstructing your signage. Some cities include this provision in their ordinances as a way of ensuring efficient traffic flow. Even if sign ordinances do not require constant update, you should keep your signs clear of debris, so that customers can locate your business.