Leasing a Commercial Space? What You Need To Know About Signage
When choosing a commercial space, most business owners focus on location, square footage, and rent, but overlook one critical factor: Can your business actually be seen once you move in?
Signage restrictions or poor visibility can directly impact your foot traffic (and your revenue).
Who Controls Signage?
Before you sign anything, you should find out:
Does the landlord need to approve your sign design and placement?
Are there any shopping center guidelines you must follow?
What does the city allow vs restrict?
In many cases, the landlord has strict branding rules, and/or the city has size limitations.
What Sign Types Are Allowed?
Not every building allows every type of sign. Common restrictions include:
Only dimensional letters allowed on facades
No illuminated signs in certain areas
Limitations on window coverage
No freestanding signs (such as pylon or monument signs)
If your business relies on visibility, this matters a lot.
How Big Can Your Sign Be?
Sign size is usually limited by linear frontage, building design, and local zoning codes. For example, you might only be allowed 1 square foot of signage per linear foot of storefront.
Is There Existing Signage You Can Reuse?
Is there an existing cabinet or raceway? Ask if it can be reused or modified, and consider if that would reduce your costs or limit your design. Reusing signage can save money, but sometimes it locks you into a less effective design.
Electrical & Installation Considerations
Not every space is sign-ready. You may need electrical hookups for illuminated signs, structural support for mounting, and access for installation equipment. If these aren’t in place already, it adds time and cost to your sign project.
Permits and Approval Process
You usually can’t install your sign right after signing your lease. In areas like Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, installing commercial signage often requires city permits and landlord approval. Delays in the permitting process can impact your opening timeline.
If your business is in an area like Covington, Clifton Heights, Over-the-Rhine, or Hyde Park, you may face strict design requirements, restrictions on materials, or limitations on size and lighting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A lot of businesses don’t think about signage until it’s too late. Avoid these common mistakes:
Signing a lease without checking signage rules
Not budgeting for signage early
Ignoring permit timelines
Choosing a space with poor visibility
Assuming you can install any sign you want
These mistakes can cost you thousands.
Quick Leasing Checklist for Signage
Before signing your lease, make sure you know:
What sign types are allowed
Your maximum sign size
If existing signage can be reused
Whether permits are required or not (they usually are)
Timeline for approvals and installation
Need help before you sign?
Forward Signs helps business owners evaluate signage options, navigate landlord and city requirements, and design and install code-compliant signage.
