Shop Signage Rules You Need to Know Before Opening a Business in West Yorkshire

Shoppers walking down a highstreet with shop signage

Opening a new business in West Yorkshire? Whether you're setting up a shop in Castleford, Pontefract, Wakefield, or Leeds, you’re probably focused on things like stock, staffing, and getting your brand out there. But one important detail is often overlooked by new business owners: signage rules and planning permission.

Getting your shop signage right isn’t just about looking good—it’s about following local regulations too. So, before you screw anything to your shopfront or start dreaming of neon lights, read on for our straightforward guide to signage do’s and don’ts in West Yorkshire.

Do I need planning permission for my shop signage?

The short answer is: sometimes.

In many cases, simple signage can be installed without planning permission—but it depends on the size, location, lighting, and your type of property. Here's a basic breakdown:

Generally permitted without planning permission:

Fascia signs that are non-illuminated
Small signs placed inside shop windows
Certain freestanding signs within your property boundary

Likely to need planning permission or building consent:

Illuminated signs (especially in conservation areas or near residential buildings)
Large, high-up signage (such as totems or projecting signs)
New signage in listed buildings or areas of historical interest
Large banner-style signs or temporary advertising for longer than 28 days

Your local planning authority (for example, Wakefield Council if you're based in Castleford or Pontefract) can advise on the specific shop signage rules for your building. But don’t worry—Project Group are here to help navigate it all.

Shop signage rules and common mistakes new shop owners make

We’ve worked with many first-time business owners over the years and have seen a few patterns when it comes to signage setbacks. Here are the most common mistakes:

Skipping permission altogether: Installing signage without checking local planning rules can lead to fines, enforcement notices—or having to take it all down and start again. Not ideal.

Choosing the wrong materials: Low-quality materials might look fine at first but deteriorate quickly, especially with the weather in West Yorkshire! Your signage needs to last—and reflect your brand.

Getting the sizing wrong: Too small and no one sees it. Too big and you could be breaching regulations. Sizing matters, especially when dealing with illuminated signs or listed buildings.

Not considering footfall or visibility: Signage that looks great on paper might get lost on a busy high street. Project Group can help you plan signage that not only complies with rules—but actually works.

How Project Group can help you get it right

Based in Castleford, Project Group has worked with businesses across Glasshoughton, Wakefield, Leeds, and beyond to design, supply, and install high-impact signage that’s both compliant and eye-catching.

Our team is familiar with local planning regulations and can help advise on:

Whether your sign needs permission
How to apply for it (we’ll even assist with the forms if needed)
What materials and sizes are suitable for your space
Creative alternatives for listed buildings or strict zones

From bold illuminated shopfront signs to simple yet elegant window graphics, we make sure you’re getting maximum visibility without the planning headaches.

Free signage consultations for new businesses

Opening a new shop in West Yorkshire? Get ahead of the signage game by booking a free consultation with Project Group. We’ll come to your premises, talk through your ideas, advise on any planning considerations, and provide a quote for high-quality signage that ticks all the boxes.

Based in Castleford, we’re perfectly placed to support local businesses in:

Glasshoughton
Wakefield
Pontefract
Leeds
And all surrounding areas

Ready to get started?

Let Project Group take the stress out of business signage. Whether you need a full shopfront design or just some advice on permissions, we’ve got the experience and knowledge to make it happen.