An illuminated sign does more than simply glow at night. It improves readability, reinforces branding, enhances safety, and helps businesses stand out in competitive environments. Your sign plays an important role in helping people find information quickly and easily, and when a sign is illuminated, it remains visible no matter the time of day.
But what signs need to be illuminated? In some cases, illumination is legally required, particularly for safety and emergency signage. For most business storefront signage, it is a practical investment that improves customer experience.
In this guide, we’ll look at which signs actually need to be illuminated, as well as the types of signs that simply benefit from better visibility after dark.
What is illuminated signage?
Illuminated signage refers to any type of sign that uses lighting to improve its visibility. Signs can be illuminated internally, usually with LED lighting built into the sign itself, or externally using spotlights or floodlights.
Some common types of illuminated signage include:
- Channel letter signs
- Pylon signs
- Monument signs
- Digital LED message boards
- Cabinet signs
- Wayfinding signs
- Parking lot signs
- Exit and emergency signage
What signs need to be illuminated?
Many types of signs benefit from illumination, especially those that need to remain visible in low-light conditions. While some illuminated signs are required by law, others are used to improve overall nighttime readability.
Let’s take a closer look:
Safety and Emergency Signs
The signs that are most commonly legally required to be illuminated are safety and emergency-related signs, especially in commercial or public buildings. These might include:
- Exit signs
- Emergency exit route signs
- Stairwell markers
- Fire safety signage
- Parking garage directional signs
- Certain wayfinding signs
- Hazard and caution signs
Pylon and Roadside Signs
For regular business signage, illumination is usually not legally required. Still, local bylaws or zoning regulations may require signs to meet certain standards for clarity and readability, especially roadside signs for businesses operating at night. More commonly, businesses choose to illuminate pylon signs and roadside signs for visibility and traffic exposure rather than because of a strict legal requirement. Without lighting, these signs become difficult to read after sunset, especially from a distance.
Businesses that often use roadside signs include:
- Gas stations
- Hotels and motels
- Shopping plazas
- Fast food restaurants
Business Storefront Signs
Storefront signs are one of the most common types of signs that benefit from illumination. These signs, placed above or near an entrance, play a key role in identifying the business and attracting attention from pedestrians and passing traffic. While not usually legally required, illumination is a practical choice, especially for businesses that operate into the evening or after dark.
Illuminated storefront signs are commonly used by:
- Retail stores
- Restaurants and cafes
- Office buildings
- Salons and spas
- Grocery stores
- Entertainment venues
- Service-based businesses
What signs don’t need to be illuminated?
Not all signs need illumination, especially if they’re used in low-traffic or well-lit environments.
Some examples of non-illuminated signs might include:
- Temporary signage (such as event signage or seasonal promotions)
- Yard signs or real estate signs (such as “for sale” signs)
- Construction signs (used only during daytime hours)
- Interior signs in lit buildings (such as indoor office or store signs)
- Residential address plaques
Some businesses choose not to illuminate their signs due to cost, maintenance, or design preferences. In many cases, using bold contrast, simple layouts, reflective materials, or external ambient lighting is enough to keep the sign readable and effective without built-in illumination.
Do I need a permit for an illuminated sign?
Yes, in most cases, illuminated signs require a permit before installation, and whether or not your sign can be illuminated will depend on local bylaws and building codes. Some municipalities require illuminated signs for certain commercial properties, while others restrict brightness levels or operation hours. These requirements can vary depending on your location and the type of sign. Before installing illuminated signage, businesses should confirm permit requirements and zoning rules with their local municipality.
For more information on illuminated signs for your business, contact us today at National Neon!
