For businesses and organisations in the United Kingdom, navigating the planning permission process is a critical consideration when installing new signage.
This is designed to ensure that signs are visually appealing, safe and do not negatively impact the local environment. As such, it's essential for any entity embarking on a signage project to fully understand the regulations and requirements surrounding planning permission. And we here at FASTSIGNS Manchester, are on hand with this handy guide to steer you through the process!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key aspects of obtaining planning permission for your sign, offering valuable insights and best practices to ensure a successful outcome. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap for successfully securing the necessary approvals and installing signage that enhances your brand presence while respecting the local community.
Understanding the Need for Planning Permission
Not all signs will require planning permission, but it's important to check whether yours falls under the relevant regulations. Planning permission is generally needed types of signs including:
Illuminated signs: Any signs using artificial light sources, such as neon or LED, as these can have a more pronounced visual impact on the surrounding area. Illumination can draw the eye and change the ambiance of a neighbourhood, so it’s something that will probably have to be reviewed.
Signs exceeding size or height restrictions: Local planning authorities typically have specific limits on the dimensions and scale of signs, dictated by factors like the building size, street width, and the overall aesthetics of the surrounding area. Larger or taller signs may be perceived as overbearing or out of scale.
Signs that project from a building: This includes projecting signs, fascia signs, and hanging signs that extend beyond the façade of a structure. These types of signs can alter the streetscape and may require particular review.
Signs in conservation areas or areas of outstanding natural beauty: These sensitive locations have stricter guidelines in place to protect the heritage or inherent character of the environment. Signage must be designed to seamlessly integrate with the historical or natural context.
Digital signs: Dynamic digital displays, especially in prominent or high-traffic areas, often require planning approval due to their potential impact on public safety. Flashing or changing content can be distracting and may raise concerns about light pollution.
Consulting with Your Local Planning Authority
Before proceeding with your signage project, it's crucial to reach out to your local planning authority to start constructive dialogue. These bodies can provide invaluable guidance on the specific requirements and considerations for your sign, including:
Regulatory details: They can clarify the exact bylaws, planning policies, and restrictions that apply to your signage, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the legal framework. This can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays later in the process.
Design guidelines: Local authorities may have specific guidelines on preferred materials, colours, font styles, and other aesthetic factors to ensure consistency with the surrounding built environment and character. Adhering to these guidelines can increase the chances of a successful application.
Application process: These could explain the documentation you’re likely to need, such as site plans, elevations, and design statements, as well as any fees payable to submit a planning application. Having a clear understanding of the required materials upfront can help you prepare a comprehensive and successful submission.
Potential challenges: Planning authorities can also advise on any potential hurdles or objections that may arise during the review process, meaning you can proactively address concerns. This could include factors like impact on heritage assets, concerns from neighbouring properties, or issues related to public safety and accessibility.
Preparing Your Planning Application
If planning permission is required, you'll need to submit a comprehensive application to the local authority. Key components of this application typically include:
Detailed site plans showing the precise location of the sign in relation to the building and surrounding environment, including dimensions and proximity to neighbouring properties. These plans should clearly convey the sign's placement and scale within the existing environment.
Elevation drawings accurately depicting the sign's design, dimensions, materials, and any lighting or projection elements. These technical drawings are crucial for the planning authority to visualise the sign's appearance from multiple angles.
Photographic evidence of the existing site conditions and a visualisation of the proposed sign's placement to help the planning authority assess the visual impact. Before-and-after images can be particularly effective in demonstrating the sign's integration with the locale.
A detailed design and access statement justifying the sign's design choices, materiality, and how it will aesthetically complement the local environment. This narrative should clearly communicate the design rationale and address any potential concerns.
Any additional supporting documents, such as heritage assessments, structural calculations, or environmental impact studies, depending on the specific nature and location of the sign. These can provide valuable context and demonstrate your consideration of the site's unique characteristics.
Submitting and Awaiting the Decision
Once your planning application is complete, you can submit it to the local planning authority, online or in-person. The authority will then carefully review your proposal and make a decision, a process that can take several weeks or even months depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the planning department.
During this waiting period, it's important to remain patient and responsive to any requests for additional information or clarification from the planning authority. Proactively addressing their concerns can increase the chances of a favourable outcome.
If your application is refused, you have the right to appeal the decision, though this process can be time-consuming and costly. To increase the chances of a successful application, it's advisable to consult with the planning authority early, provide high-quality and comprehensive documentation, and ensure your sign design thoughtfully considers the local context and any relevant design guidelines.
By understanding the planning permission process and following the necessary steps, you can navigate the regulations and install signage that enhances your business or organization's visibility while respecting the local environment.
Seeking professional advice from planning consultants or signage specialists, such as FASTSIGNS Manchester, can also be invaluable in ensuring a smooth and compliant signage installation.
We’re here to help, so get in touch!