1. Dated sign designs promoting services you no longer offer
Dated sign designs are bad for business. In a survey of 100,218 North American households, researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that more than one-third (34.5%) of respondents regularly made quality assumptions about businesses based on the appearance of their signs. In other words, if your signage is fading, discolored, or simply out of style, you’re doing your brand a disservice. But did you know that your outdated signage may be against Montgomery sign law? According to Section 66-2(A.2), any “signs which advertise an activity, business or service no longer conducted upon the premises” are expressly prohibited. But don’t worry: remediation is easy, and we have plenty of affordable options to help you keep your signs compliant.2. Sign designs with moving elements
Considering a sign design that uses moving elements to catch the eye? Think again!
According to Section 66-2(A.3), Montgomery bylaws ban all “signs which move or contain visible moving parts.”
A good alternative to moving sign elements is dynamic digital signage. These sign types allow users to display pictures, videos, scrolling text, and more, creating engaging displays that attract the eye without violating local sign law. You can learn more on our Digital Signs page.
3. Risqué sign design and promotional copy
Nowadays, more and more businesses are leaning into risqué promotional copy to stand out from competitors and connect with younger audiences. But beware: according to Section 66-2(a.6), Montgomery County does not tolerate any “signs which contain statements, words, or pictures of an obscene, indecent, or immoral character which reasonably offend public morals or decency.”
When in doubt about whether your message meets Montgomery’s criteria for “morals and decency,” consult with our sign design experts.
4. Sign designs using flashing, blinking, or traveling lights
Illuminant media is a great option for businesses that operate at night, as well as those that simply want to enhance their daytime visibility, but proceed with caution. Flashing, blinking, or traveling lights are not allowed, other than those detailed in Section 66-53 of the Code of Ordinances.
To explore your illuminant sign options and discuss suitable lighted sign designs, get in touch with our team.
5. Hand-made sign designs
You may be considering hand-made signage as a way to save money, but it will cost you more over the long-term in the form of fines and damage to your brand image. Not only does it look rather low-rent by comparison to professional signage, but hand-made sign designs are banned in Montgomery County. According to Section 66-2(A.16), “all signs must be professionally produced.”
If cost control is your primary concern, we can help. Get in touch with our team to discuss affordable custom sign design and explore our cost-effective advertising options today.
