Commercial Signage and Planning Permission in Manchester — What You Need to Know
One of the most common questions we get from Manchester businesses embarking on a new signage project is: “Do I need planning permission for this?” The answer depends on a range of factors — sign type, size, location, and whether your property is in a conservation area or listed. This guide explains the key planning rules for commercial signage in Greater Manchester, helping you understand what requires Advertisement Consent and what falls under permitted development rights.
The Two Key Concepts: Advertisement Consent vs Permitted Development
In England, signage is governed by the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) (England) Regulations 2007. Under these regulations, most signs require “Advertisement Consent” — but many types of sign are “deemed to have consent” under permitted development rights, meaning you don’t need to apply for permission, provided they meet specified size and lighting criteria.
Signs That Generally Don’t Need Planning Permission
The following types of signage typically fall within permitted development rights for commercial premises:
Fascia signs — A non-illuminated fascia sign that doesn’t project more than 1m from the building face and doesn’t exceed the height of the fascia itself is typically permitted development. Illuminated fascia signs are generally permitted on commercial premises in most zones, subject to size limits.
Window graphics — Internal window graphics (applied to the inside of the glass) are not subject to the Advertisement Regulations at all — they don’t require consent. External window vinyl is treated more like a sign.
A-boards and temporary signs — Temporary signs for events and short-term promotions have more lenient rules, though A-boards on public footpaths can require permission from the local highway authority under separate legislation.
Signs That Usually Need Advertisement Consent
The following typically require formal Advertisement Consent from Manchester City Council or the relevant local authority: projecting (blade) signs that extend more than 1m from the building face, signs above first-floor level on a building, illuminated signs in conservation areas, any sign outside the footprint of the premises (freestanding totems and pylon signs), and signs above certain size thresholds.
Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings
Parts of Manchester — including areas of the Northern Quarter, Ancoats, Castlefield, and parts of the suburban conservation areas — have additional restrictions. In conservation areas, permitted development rights are often removed for illuminated signs, and the design of any sign is subject to more rigorous scrutiny. Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent in addition to Advertisement Consent for any signage affecting the building’s historic fabric.
How We Help with Planning
At Signs Company Manchester, we have extensive experience navigating the planning process for our clients. We can advise on what’s likely to be permitted, prepare design drawings for planning applications, and liaise with planning officers on your behalf. Our experience with Manchester City Council, Salford City Council, Stockport MBC, and other Greater Manchester authorities means we know what each planning team looks for.
📞 07737 902 425
📧 hello@webprintsigns.co.uk
📍 116 Bury New Road, Manchester M8 8EB