Do You Need Planning Permission for a Sign? UK Guide 2026

Understanding whether your business sign requires planning permission can be confusing. In the UK, signage is controlled under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations, and the rules differ depending on your location, sign type, and whether your property is in a conservation area.

When You DON'T Need Planning Permission

Many business signs benefit from 'deemed consent' — meaning they're automatically allowed without a formal application. This generally applies to:

• Signs on business premises that don't exceed certain size limits
• Non-illuminated fascia signs on shops (max 0.3m projection)
• Signs within a building (window displays)
• Temporary signs for sales or events (with restrictions)
• Estate agent boards (within size limits)

When You DO Need Planning Permission

You'll need to apply for 'express consent' (Advertisement Consent) if:

• Your sign exceeds the size limits for deemed consent
• You're in a conservation area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Your property is a listed building
• You want an illuminated sign in a residential area
• The sign projects more than 1 metre from the building
• You want a freestanding sign (totem/pylon) exceeding certain dimensions

Conservation Areas & Listed Buildings

In conservation areas, most signs require express consent regardless of size. Listed Building Consent is needed for any sign that affects the character of a listed building — this includes drilling fixings into the facade. Complete Signs has extensive experience working with conservation officers to achieve compliant, attractive signage.

How to Apply

Advertisement Consent applications are submitted to your local planning authority, usually via the Planning Portal. The application fee is currently £462 per site. The council has 8 weeks to make a decision.

At Complete Signs, we handle the entire planning process as part of our service — from preparing scaled drawings and photomontages to liaising with the planning department. This is included in our quote at no extra charge.

Scotland & Wales

Scotland has its own regulations under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (Scotland) Regulations 1984. The principles are similar but some size limits and categories differ. In Wales, bilingual signage (English/Welsh) may be required in certain areas.

Complete Signs operates nationwide and understands the specific requirements in each jurisdiction.

Our Advice

Don't risk installing signage without the correct permissions — councils can require removal of non-compliant signs and issue fines. Contact Complete Signs on 0800 454 613 for a free consultation, and we'll advise on what's needed for your specific location.