If you own, or are in the process of moving into a new business premises or wish to highlight a business, activity or promote yourself you are likely to wish to display an advertisement.

An advertisement is defined under planning as any letters, words, signs, notices, boards etc. They may or may not be illuminated. This also includes any existing hoarding or sign that you wish to adapt to suit your own advertisement.

In general the display of an advertisement will require consent from the local planning authority. There are signs that are deemed to have consent, though these will need to be checked carefully, and usually with reference to the local authority, to ensure that they comply.

You will even require consent to display a sign on the outside or front of your own residential property if it is bigger than 0.3 square metres.

Proposed advertisements are generally assessed by the Local Authority in terms of the appropriate appearance for the location (the amenity) and public safety (for example, will the sign be distracting to passing motorists and thereby cause a hazard).

You should also be aware that if the building is listed you will also require listed building consent.

Easton Bevins have a proven track record in assisting businesses with obtaining advertising consent and have acted for individuals who require “one off” adverts and for large corporations where we have obtain consent nationwide.

For further information and advice please contact one of our professional staff.