What You Need to Know Before Designing Your Sign

Designing a new sign for your business, apartment complex, or property can be exciting, but before jumping into production, there are a few important things to consider. From city regulations to visibility and placement, understanding these details early on can save you time and frustration.

1. Know Your City’s Sign Codes

Did you know that some cities have strict sign codes that control the size, lighting, and even colors you can use? For example, certain areas only allow specific color temperatures for illuminated channel letters, while others limit how bright your sign can be. Always check with your city’s planning or permitting department before finalizing your design.

2. Consider Placement and Visibility

Location plays a big role in how effective your sign will be. Whether you’re installing monument signs near an entrance or mounting channel letters on a building façade, visibility from the road and pedestrian areas is key. Think about height, distance from the street, and any obstacles that could block your sign.

3. Check Existing Signage

If your building or complex already has several signs, you may be limited by total signage square footage allowed. This is especially true for large properties or apartment signs; city ordinances often have a cap on how much signage can be displayed per tenant or per frontage.

4. Make Sure Your Permits Are in Order

Before you design or install your sign, confirm that your occupancy permit has been approved and all required building inspections have passed. Many cities won’t issue a sign permit until these steps are complete.

5. Not Sure Where to Start? We Can Help.

Navigating sign codes, permits, and design options can be overwhelming, but that’s where we come in. At CND Signs, we specialize in designing and fabricating everything from elegant apartment signs to bold channel letters and custom monument signs.

We’ll help you design a sign that’s not only compliant with your local regulations but also stands out and reflects your brand.

📞 Contact us today to get started on your next signage project.