Opening a new business is exciting, but there’s a lot to think about—choosing a location, setting up operations, hiring staff, and, of course, getting customers in the door.

One of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of this process is signage. The right signs help people find your business, understand what you offer, and feel confident walking in.

But where do you start? How do you know what signs you need? What rules do you have to follow?

This guide walks you through everything—from outdoor signs that grab attention to indoor signs that enhance customer experience. Whether you’re opening a shop, office, or restaurant, this will help you understand the process so you can plan ahead and make informed decisions.

Why Signage Matters

Good signage does more than display a name. It:

✔ Guides customers – Makes it easy for people to find you, park, and walk in.
✔ Builds brand awareness – Reinforces your business identity with colors, fonts, and logos.
✔ Creates a professional first impression – A well-designed sign shows that your business is established and trustworthy.
✔ Helps with marketing – A clear, easy-to-read sign can bring in new customers just by being visible.

What to Expect in This Guide

This guide is structured to help you think through each step of the sign-buying process. We’ll cover:

• Roadside Signage – The signs that help people spot your business from the road.
  
• Business & Storefront Signage – Signs on your building that establish your presence.
• Indoor Signage – Signs that help customers navigate and engage with your space.

We’ll also cover permits, approvals, and timelines so you know what to expect. Getting the right signage takes time—start early to avoid delays.

Roadside Signage: Make Your Business Easy to Find

Imagine someone is driving down a busy street looking for your business. Maybe they heard about you online, got a recommendation, or saw an ad. But if they can’t spot your location quickly, they might keep driving and go somewhere else.

That’s where roadside signage comes in. A well-placed sign makes sure customers can find your business easily and know exactly where to turn. It also attracts new customers who may not have been looking for you but noticed your sign.

Types of Roadside Signs

Shopping Center Signs (Tenant Panels on Monument Signs)

If your business is in a shopping plaza, retail strip, or business park, you may need a tenant panel on the shared monument sign at the entrance.

Standalone Business Signs

If you own or lease a freestanding building, you have more flexibility in designing your own roadside sign. Popular options include:

• Monument Signs – Low to the ground, often with stone or brick bases.
• Post and Panel Signs – A budget-friendly option, great for temporary or permanent use.
• Pylon Signs – Tall signs ideal for businesses along highways.

Permits & Approvals

Before installing any roadside sign, you need approval from:

✅ The City (or County) – Local rules decide how big your sign can be, where it can be placed, and if it needs lighting.
✅ Your Landlord or Property Manager (if you rent) – Some plazas have strict signage requirements.

These approvals can take weeks or months, so it’s important to start early.

Business & Storefront Signage: Creating a Strong First Impression

Once customers pull into your parking lot, the next thing they look for is your storefront signage. This is what tells them they’re in the right place and gives them their first impression of your business.

Types of Business & Storefront Signs

Channel Letter Signs (3D Lettering)

One of the most popular options for storefront signage, channel letters are three-dimensional, individually cut letters that are typically backlit or front-lit.

Cabinet Signs (Lightbox Signs)

Enclosed signs with an illuminated face, often used for businesses that operate at night.

Window Graphics

Your windows are prime real estate for signage. Window graphics can display your logo, store hours, promotions, or branding elements.

Indoor Signage: Guiding Customers & Enhancing Experience

Once customers walk through your doors, what happens next? Indoor signage helps guide them, reinforce your brand, and improve their experience.

Types of Indoor Signage

Lobby & Reception Signs

A lobby sign is often the first thing customers see when they walk in, creating a strong first impression.

Wayfinding & Directional Signs

Help customers and employees navigate the space with signs marking entrances, restrooms, checkout areas, and meeting rooms.

Wall Murals & Branding Graphics

Transform an empty wall into a brand statement with large-scale graphics featuring your company’s values or visuals.

Signage is an Investment in Your Business

A great sign isn’t just a marker—it’s one of the best marketing tools your business can have. It works 24/7 to bring in customers and reinforce your brand.

By planning ahead and understanding the process, you can ensure your signage is installed on time, fully permitted, and ready to bring in traffic from day one.

If you are starting a new business, opening a new location, or just want to update your current shop, Contact us to talk to a business signage expert. The team at Charlotte Sign Studio is here to make the signage process easy!