Exterior Building Signs: Design, Options & Permits

Exterior Building Signs: What You Need to Know

Learn why exterior building signs matter, explore design options, and understand permitting laws.

When you're searching for the perfect exterior building sign for your storefront, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Whether you're a local shop with a few locations or part of a franchise spanning multiple states, finding a sign that fits your brand, budget, and local regulations is crucial. Let’s break down everything you need to know about creating an effective and compliant exterior building sign.



Why Exterior Building Signs Are Important


Exterior building signs are more than just a label for your storefront—they’re your first impression. A well-designed sign can attract foot traffic, enhance brand visibility, and communicate professionalism to potential customers.

Key factors in designing and customizing an effective exterior sign include:


  • Brand Identity: Your sign should align with your business's colors, logo, and overall branding.
  • Visibility: Consider size, height, and lighting to ensure your sign is easily visible from a distance.
  • Durability: Weather-resistant materials are essential for outdoor signs to withstand the elements.
  • Location Specifics: The placement of your sign should maximize exposure while adhering to local regulations.


Investing in the right design and customization not only enhances your curb appeal but also boosts your business’s long-term growth.



Popular Exterior Building Sign Options


Choosing the right type of exterior building sign depends on your business’s needs and style. Here are some of the most popular options:


  1. Illuminated Channel Letters: Perfect for nighttime visibility, these signs use LED lighting to make your brand stand out after dark.
  2. Cloud Signs: These are versatile, illuminated signs shaped to match your logo or brand elements.
  3. Flat Cut Out (FCO): A modern, minimalist option ideal for sleek and professional branding.
  4. Monument Signs: Great for businesses set back from the road. Monument Signs offer a bold and grounded look.
  5. Pylon Signs: Tall and freestanding, perfect for high-visibility locations like shopping centers or gas stations.
  6. Blade Signs: Mounted perpendicular to your building; blade signs are excellent for pedestrian traffic.


Each sign type offers unique benefits, so working with an experienced team ensures you get the best fit for your business.



Permitting, Local Ordinances, and Franchise Challenges


Permits and local laws can significantly impact your sign design and installation. Cities often have strict rules regarding sign size, placement, and lighting. Franchises face added complexity as they navigate different municipal codes across state lines.


At National Sign Team, we:


  • Research local ordinances to ensure compliance.
  • Handle the permitting process to save you time and hassle.
  • Provide expert advice to maintain consistency across multiple locations while adapting to local requirements.


Skipping this critical step can lead to costly fines or even sign removal, making it essential to partner with professionals who understand the legal landscape.



Contact National Sign Team for Your Exterior Building Signs


Ready to upgrade your storefront with an exterior building sign that makes an impact? Let National Sign Team guide you through design, permitting, and installation.


📞 Call us at 727-859-1044
📧 Email us at
info@nationalsignteam.com


Your business deserves a sign that stands out—contact National Sign Team today!


A collage of various signs including one for walmart
By Dan Morelli March 12, 2025
Rebranding your storefront? Learn the latest signage & branding trends, from minimalist nostalgia to modern updates, for lasting impact.
A national sign team logo on a blue background
By Brandon Morelli March 6, 2025
Discover the top 7 storefront sign types big franchises use to attract customers. Learn how to choose, match, and rebrand your signage for success.
A man is sitting at a desk with a laptop and a sticky note on it that says `` delayed again ''.
By Brandon Morelli February 27, 2025
Discover whether managing your signs in-house or outsourcing to a national sign company is the right move for your growing brand.
A construction worker wearing a hard hat and safety vest is looking at a clipboard.
By Brandon Morelli February 20, 2025
A signage site survey ensures compliance, visibility, and proper placement. Learn why it’s crucial and how to prepare for a smooth installation.
Collage of storefront signs of popular brands like Planet Holywood.
By Mike Morelli February 13, 2025
Franchisors need more than just signs. National Sign Team provides real-time project management and execution for franchise signage nationwide.
A building with a sign that says alloy on it
By Brandon Morelli February 5, 2025
National Sign Team ensures brand consistency with precise color-matched signage for Alloy Personal Training in Bonney Lake, WA. See the results.
A row of brick houses on a narrow street
By Dan Morelli January 30, 2025
Learn how to maintain brand consistency while complying with historic district regulations. Tips for signage, lighting, and permits included.
A large building with a lot of windows is lit up at night.
By Brandon Morelli January 15, 2025
Discover how National Sign Team used Face-Lit LED Illuminated Channel Letters to elevate Sono Bello Albuquerque’s branding. Learn more today!
A sign for planet hollywood is lit up at night
By Mike Morelli January 9, 2025
Explore how National Sign Team tackled the challenges of big-city signage with Planet Hollywood in Times Square, blending bold design with brand impact.
A national sign team logo is surrounded by christmas decorations.
By Brandon Morelli December 24, 2024
Celebrate the holiday spirit with National Sign Team as we reflect on joy, togetherness, and planning for an exciting new year ahead.
More Posts
Share by: