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Signage Laws and Rights
Signage is vital to any
business, however there are legal issues, which you should be aware of
in order to prevent any legal problems.
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Beginning with your front outdoor
signage, effective signs can draw people into your store and alter their
shopping habits. You want your outdoor signage visible from the street,
readable, and it has to clearly convey your store's product or service.
However, you have to ensure your outdoor signage meets all county and
state codes for your area. Signage inside your store should highlight
sale items,
as well as promote impulse buying and present the store with an
interesting visual appeal. However, just as there are laws governing
your outdoor signage, there are laws, which govern indoor signage as
well.
The American Disabilities Act prohibits physical and communication
obstructions in all public buildings in order to facilitate those with
special requirements. Therefore, ensure that all signage adhere to these
regulations. In order to ensure you are incompliance, it is advised that
you can go online or visit your public library for details of the act.
Under the first amendment, the content of your signage is protected
against any municipality trying to censor or regulate it, however, if
your content is offensive, the fist amendment will not protect you
against boycotts or other forms of protest. The fourteenth amendment
guarantees fair treatment and due process, particularly concerning
applying for variances. In addition, it is suggested that all sign
graphics, artwork, and company logos be copyrighted to protect and
prevent other companies
from copying or using the images.
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