Do I Need Permission to Have a Business Sign Installed?

The Project Group Guide for Yorkshire Business Owners

Whether you're just starting out or completely rebranding your business, a high quality business sign can make all the difference. 

It's the first this your customers, or potential customers will see and it really sets the tone for your brand. 

But before you (or we!) go ahead and install your brand new signage, we need to consider one important question every business owner in Yorkshire should ask:

Do I need planning permission to have a business sign installed?

In short? The answer is yes... sometimes. But don’t worry, Project Group are here to make it simple.

Understanding signage regulations in Yorkshire

Across the UK, all business signage falls under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations 2007. These rules are in place to make sure signs are safe, appropriate for their surroundings, and don’t distract drivers or cause visual clutter.

Whether you’re a shop in Wakefield, a café in Castleford, or an office in Leeds, signage permission depends on:

• The size and placement of your sign

• Whether it’s illuminated

• The type of property it’s fixed to (listed buildings and conservation areas have stricter rules)

• How close it is to public roads or walkways
  

When you're likely to need permission

You’ll likely need advertisement consent if your sign:

• Is illuminated or uses digital screens

• Exceeds a certain size (this varies by location)

• Projects more than a set distance from your building

• Is being installed on a listed property or in a conservation area

• Is freestanding (for example, a totem or monument sign - which we can design, build and install for you!)
  

Each local authority, including:

• Leeds City Council

• Wakefield Council

• Kirklees Council

• and others
  

...might interpret these rules slightly differently.

That’s where having a knowledgeable business signage partner like Project Group really helps.

When you don’t usually need permission

If your signage is small, fixed flat to your building, and doesn’t light up, you may not need formal consent. Many high street shops use vinyl window graphics, fascia boards, or flat panels without needing to apply. If you're not sure get in touch, we can talk you through it. 

Even “simple” signs benefit from professional advice. Not just to avoid fines or removal orders, but to make sure your sign complies with safety and installation standards.

How Project Group can help you navigate the rules

At Project Group, we work with businesses across Castleford, Leeds, Wakefield, Huddersfield and beyond, providing full signage consultation, design, and installation services.

When it comes to planning permission, we take the stress out of the process by offering:

• Local authority planning support 

We liaise directly with councils to confirm what’s needed before installation begins.

• Full site surveys

Ensuring your design fits safely and legally within your premises.

• Design and visual mock-ups 

Helping you see how your signage will look before applying for consent.

• Professional installation and certification

Ensuring everything is completed to regulation standards.

With years of experience, we’ve helped countless Yorkshire businesses bring their signage ideas to life while staying fully compliant.

Why it pays to get professional advice

Applying for permission after your sign has already been installed can cause delays, costs, and even removal notices. By working with Project Group from the start, you save valuable time, avoid unnecessary paperwork, and ensure your sign looks exactly how you envisioned as well as being safe and legal.

Plus, our local expertise means we know what each Yorkshire council expects, so we can tailor your application to ensure a smoother approval process.

Ready to get your signage sorted? 

Whether you’re planning a new shopfront, a large illuminated sign, or a complete business rebrand, Project Group will guide you through every step. From design and planning permission to installation and maintenance.

Do you need permission to have a business sign installed? Get in touch today to arrange a consultation and find out.