North Herts Signage Planning Permission: A Quick Guide for New Businesses

Congratulations on opening your new business in North Herts! You've secured your location, perfected your product, and now it's time to make your mark with eye-catching signage. But before you get creative with colours and fonts, there's a crucial step many new businesses overlook: North Herts signage planning permission.

Getting your commercial signage right isn't just about aesthetics; it's about adhering to local regulations. At JM Display, your local Hertfordshire-based manufacturer, we're not just experts in shopfront signage and large format print; we're also here to help you navigate the essential groundwork.

Let's break down what you need to know about signage permission in North Hertfordshire.

Why Does Signage Need Planning Permission in North Herts?

Many historic market towns, have specific planning policies aimed at preserving its unique character and appearance. The local authority, North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC), governs what kind of signs can be displayed, their size, illumination, and placement. This ensures that signage is appropriate for its surroundings, doesn't pose a safety hazard, and doesn't detract from the area's visual appeal.

Ignoring these rules can lead to hefty fines, or worse, being forced to remove your beautifully crafted sign – a situation no new business wants!

What Kind of Signs Typically Need Permission?

Generally, most external signs on commercial properties in North Herts will require some form of consent. This includes:

  • Fascia Signs: Signs directly fixed to the front of your building.

  • Projecting Signs: Signs that stick out from the building.

  • Pavement Signs (A-Boards): Though often smaller, these still have regulations regarding placement to ensure pedestrian access.

  • Window Graphics: Large or illuminated graphics covering a significant portion of a window.

  • Illuminated Signs: Any sign lit internally or externally.

  • Hoardings/Temporary Signs: For construction sites or temporary promotions.

The Two Types of Consent: Planning Permission & Advertisement Consent

For commercial signage, you're usually looking at one of two types of consent from North Hertfordshire District Council:

  1. Advertisement Consent: This is the most common for standard business signs. It's specifically for "advertisements" as defined by planning law. There are "deemed consent" rules for smaller, non-illuminated signs, but it's always safer to check.

  2. Planning Permission: In some cases, particularly for larger structures, signs in Conservation Areas, or those significantly altering the building's appearance, full planning permission might be required.

Crucially, if your building is Listed (a Listed Building), you will always need Listed Building Consent in addition to Advertisement Consent or Planning Permission.

Key Considerations for Your North Herts Signage Application

When preparing your application or discussing your sign ideas with us, consider these points:

  • Size and Proportion: Your sign's size should be proportionate to the building it's on and its surroundings. Overly large signs are often rejected.

  • Location: Where on the building will it go? Will it obstruct views or be unsafe?

  • Illumination: If your sign will be illuminated, the type, colour, and intensity of lighting are important. In residential areas or Conservation Areas, bright or flashing lights are often prohibited.

  • Materials and Design: NHDC will consider the materials used and the overall design to ensure it's in keeping with the local character, especially in Conservation Areas.

  • Conservation Areas: Much of North Hertfordshire is a Conservation Area. This means stricter rules apply to preserve historical integrity, and signs must be particularly sensitive to their environment.

How JM Display Can Help You Navigate the Process

Navigating planning regulations can seem daunting, especially when you're busy launching a business. This is where JM Display can be an invaluable partner.

As your local Hertfordshire signage manufacturer, we:

  1. Understand Local Requirements: We have experience working with businesses across Hertfordshire and are familiar with NHDC's guidelines.

  2. Design Compliant Signage: Our team can help you design bespoke signage solutions that not only look fantastic but also stand the best chance of gaining approval.

  3. Provide Technical Drawings: For planning applications, you'll often need detailed drawings and specifications of your proposed sign. We can provide these as part of our service.

  4. Advise on Materials: From durable shopfront signage to elegant 3D lettering, we'll recommend materials that meet both aesthetic and regulatory requirements.

Get Started Right

Don't let planning permission be an afterthought. By considering it early, you can ensure a smooth launch for your Hertfordshire business and avoid costly delays.

Ready to discuss your vision for stunning, compliant commercial signage?

Contact JM Display today – your trusted local expert in print and display solutions for Hertfordshire and all across the UK and London. We're here to help bring your brand to life, the right way.

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