Installing new signage is one of the most effective ways to improve brand visibility and attract customers. However, many businesses in the UK overlook an important requirement before installing signage — advertisement consent.
In many cases, signage requires approval from the local planning authority before it can legally be installed. Failing to obtain this consent can lead to delays, enforcement action, or costly removal.
At Signstar, we help businesses across the UK navigate the advertisement consent process for signage, ensuring projects move smoothly from concept to installation.
What Is Advertisement Consent for Signage?

Advertisement consent is a form of planning permission required for certain types of signage and advertising displays.
Local councils regulate signage to ensure it:
- Is safe for the public
- Does not distract drivers or obstruct visibility
- Fits with the character of the surrounding area
- Prevents excessive visual clutter
Some signage qualifies for “deemed consent”, meaning permission is automatically granted if specific conditions are met. However, many types of business signage require formal approval.
Examples of signage that often require advertisement consent in the UK include:
- Illuminated shop signs
- Fascia signage
- Totem or pylon signs
- Large external branding
- Signs installed in conservation areas or listed buildings
Because regulations vary between councils, it’s important to seek expert guidance before installing signage.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Business Signage?
Many businesses ask: “Do I need planning permission for my shop sign?”
The answer depends on factors such as:
- The size of the signage
- Whether the sign is illuminated
- The location of the building
- Whether the property is listed or in a conservation area
- The type of advertising display
Even when signage falls under deemed consent, it must still comply with strict regulations.
This is why many businesses work with a signage specialist like Signstar to manage the process.
How Signstar Helps Clients Secure Advertisement Consent
- Expert Advice on Signage Planning Permission
Signstar has extensive experience working with UK planning authorities and understands the regulations surrounding signage.
We help clients determine:
- Whether advertisement consent is required
- Which signage designs are most likely to gain approval
- How local planning policies affect the project
This early guidance can prevent costly redesigns and delays.
- Preparation of Planning Drawings
Planning authorities require detailed documentation when reviewing signage applications.
Signstar prepares professional application drawings including:
- Elevation drawings
- Site location plans
- Signage specifications
- Illumination details
These technical documents ensure your advertisement consent application meets council requirements.
- Managing the Advertisement Consent Application
Submitting planning applications can be time-consuming and complex.
Signstar manages the entire process, including:
- Preparing and submitting applications
- Communicating with the local planning authority
- Responding to planning queries
- Tracking application progress
This allows businesses to focus on their operations while we handle the paperwork.
- Designing Signage That Meets Planning Regulations
Effective signage needs to balance visual impact and compliance.
Our design team creates signage that:
- Enhances brand visibility
- Meets UK signage regulations
- Respects conservation areas and heritage buildings
Designing with advertisement consent requirements in mind increases the chances of approval.
- Supporting Multi-Location Brand Rollouts
For national brands, managing signage approvals across multiple sites can be challenging.
Signstar helps coordinate advertisement consent for multi-site signage rollouts, ensuring:
- Consistent brand presentation
- Compliance with local authority rules
- Efficient installation timelines
Why Businesses Choose Signstar for Signage Planning Support
Working with Signstar means gaining a partner who understands both signage design and planning regulations.
Benefits include:
- Expert guidance on advertisement consent for signage
- Professional planning documentation
- End-to-end signage project management
- Reduced risk of application delays or refusals
- A streamlined process from design to installation
Start Your Signage Project With Confidence
Whether you’re opening a new store, rebranding your premises, or installing illuminated signage, securing advertisement consent is a key step in the process.
Signstar helps businesses across the UK obtain signage planning permission quickly and efficiently, ensuring your signage is both compliant and impactful.
If you’re planning new signage, our team is ready to help guide you through the advertisement consent process from start to finish.



