Can you put up your own road signs UK?

If you’ve ever thought about putting up your own road sign—whether for safety reasons, business promotion, or just for fun—you might want to think twice. In the UK, road signage is strictly regulated, and unauthorized signs can lead to fines, removal, and even legal action. Let’s break down what you can and can’t do when it comes to erecting road signs in the UK.

Who Controls Road Signs?

The UK government regulates all official road signs through the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD), which sets out how signs must be designed, where they can be placed, and who is responsible for them. Local councils and highway authorities oversee most signage on public roads, while private landowners control signage on private property.

Can You Put Up a Sign on a Public Road?

In short—no, not without permission. Any sign placed on a public road must comply with the TSRGD and be approved by the local highway authority. Unauthorized signs can:

• Confuse or distract drivers

• Block official road signs

• Create safety hazards

If you put up an unapproved sign, the council can remove it, and you may be fined under the Highways Act 1980 or the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

What About Temporary Signs?

Certain temporary signs—such as event notices, business signs, or safety warnings—may be allowed, but you usually need permission from the local council. For example:

• Event Signs: If you’re organizing a charity run or village fete, you can apply for temporary signage via your local council.

• Business Signs: Some businesses put up directional signs (like brown tourist signs), but these must be approved.

• Construction & Roadworks Signs: Contractors must follow strict guidelines when using temporary signs for roadworks.

Can You Put Up Signs on Private Property?

If you want to put up a sign on your own land, it depends on its size, content, and location. You may need advertisement consent from the council, especially if the sign is near a highway. Signs that could be mistaken for official traffic signs, or that obstruct visibility, are likely to be removed.

What About Funny or Decorative Signs?

Funny or decorative signs—like "Slow Down, Hedgehogs Crossing" or "Beware of the Chickens"—have become popular in rural areas. While these are tolerated in some cases, if they resemble official road signs or cause confusion, they can still be removed by authorities.

How to Get a Sign Approved

If you need an official sign installed, you should:

1. Contact your local council’s highways department.

2. Explain why the sign is needed (e.g., safety concerns, business promotion).

3. Submit an application if required.

For businesses, brown tourist signs or directional signage may require a fee and strict adherence to design standards.

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to put up your own road sign, doing so without permission can lead to legal trouble. Always check with your local council before erecting any sign near a public road. If your sign is on private land, ensure it doesn’t cause confusion or obstruction. When in doubt, seek approval first—it’ll save you time, money, and potential fines.

Would you like more details on applying for road signs in your area? Let me know in the comments!