Shop Signs and Advertisements: What You Need to Know

Before you put up any outdoor advertisement, you'll always need to secure permission. This permission comes in one of two forms: either 'deemed consent' which is granted automatically under planning laws, or 'express consent' which you must specifically apply for from your local planning authority.

Automatic Permission (Deemed Consent)

You might find that certain conventional, non-lit fascia signs and hanging signs are automatically permitted through 'deemed consent'. However, this is only the case if your sign adheres to particular rules and restrictions, such as limits on its size. If your advertisement completely satisfies every requirement for deemed consent, you won't be required to submit a separate application for express permission to your local planning authority.

To get a deeper understanding of the government's official guidelines concerning outdoor advertisements and signs, we recommend you consult these resources: Outdoor advertisements and signs: a guide for advertisers and The Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007.

Applying for Direct Permission (Express Consent)

Should your proposed advertisement fail to meet any of the conditions for deemed consent, then it is mandatory for you to submit an application for 'express advertisement consent' directly to your local planning authority.

Other Key Things to Consider

• For Listed Buildings: If your property holds listed status, remember that you'll require 'Listed Building Consent' on top of your 'Advertisement Consent'.

• Legal Consequences: Putting up an advertisement without the necessary permission is considered a criminal offence. Your local planning authority has the power to demand its removal and can even begin legal proceedings against you.

• Council-Specific Advice: A lot of local councils have created their own additional guides on designing appropriate advertisements and business signs. This is because unsuitable signage can unfortunately detract from an area's appearance and even harm its local economy.

• Owner's Permission: Apart from planning consent, you might also need to get permission from your landlord or the property owner before installing any sign or advertisement.