The Sign Research Foundation (SRF) works to create safe, navigable and thriving communities through the creation of evidence-based research and education. And this work makes SRF a silent hero of the sign, graphics and visual communications industry.
When local officials and planners create the codes and regulations that impact our industry, they are able to turn to the SRF research and education to help guide their decision making. SRF’s grassroots work to educate planners throughout North America positively impacts your ability to get your customer the sign they want, get permits/variances approved, and more.
In 2022, the Sign Research Foundation generated four resources for local officials and planners which will help them define and improve sign codes and regulations.
Content Neutral Sign Codes After Reed and Austin brings clarity to often-confusing legal issues. The report will help local officials understand what a content-neutral sign code looks like in order to be in compliance with federal policy that was defined in two recent U.S. Supreme Court cases. It also provides guidance on regulating on-premises vs. off-premises signs.
The Glossary of Signage Terms includes thousands of definitions of commonly used phrases in the sign, graphics and visual communications industry, as well as photos and examples of specific sign types. This report will help planners and local officials speak the same language when developing and revising sign regulations.
Saving Historic & Vintage Signs – Best Practices Regulating These Community Icons explores the restoration and preservation process of iconic signage within the framework of local regulations. The conservation of historic signs can draw customers into shopping and entertainment districts, bringing a nostalgic vibe to tourists which helps bolster the local economy.
Signs of Equity was a webinar presentation where planners and local officials examined how sign regulations may contribute to inequity and exclusions. This session incorporated ethnographic observation, interviews and storefront texts from Brooklyn, New York, to discover signage models and methods that ensure equity, diversity and inclusion.
Your donation now gives the Foundation the funds they need to keep the momentum of positive changes in sign codes and regulations. We hope you make a generous donation of $500, $100 or even $50 today at SignResearch.org.
