Advertisements cover a broad range of different advertisements and signs, but typically the types of advertisements that require Advertisement Consent include, but are not limited to:
- The majority of illuminated signs
- Advertisements using specialised structures for their display such as poster hoardings
- Signs positioned above 4.6m in relation to buildings above the level of the bottom part of the first floor windows, or on gable ends

For more information about when an Advertisement Consent Application may be required, there is a detailed breakdown on the government website.

The Local Authority ultimately determines which advertisements are allowed to run. Permission is also usually granted for 5 years, but in some cases this can be shorter or longer, and if you require a sign or advertisement for a shorter temporary period, you can apply for the time-frame within the application.

Many Local Authorities offer pre-application advice before applying for an advertisement consent application so any amendments can be made prior to submission, and it can often be beneficial to consult neighbours and other members of the community prior to making the application so they can offer their support in the consultation period.

You can read more about Advertisement Consent Applications on the Planning Portals user-friendly website.

There are 5 standard conditions that must be met before an outdoor advertisement or signage can be applied, they must:

• Be clean and tidy
• Be kept in a safe condition
• Have permission to be displayed from the owner of the site (including Highways Authority if it is placed on their land)
• Not obscure or hinder the view of road, rail, waterway or aircraft signs or make use of these transports hazardous
• Be removed carefully when required to by the planning authority

Most signs such as shop fronts and small advertisements are usually permitted without the need for an application unless you are in a Conservation Area or an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or if the advertisement will be in close proximity to a Listed Building.