The Storefront Signage Checklist for New Businesses: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting It Right Starting a new business is exciting but making sure customers can actually find and recognize you is critical. In 2026, your storefront signs are often the first (and sometimes only) impression passersby get before deciding to walk in. A well designed sign can increase foot traffic by 20 to 50%, according to industry studies, especially in busy areas like Orlando and Central Florida. Here’s your practical storefront signage checklist to help new business owners avoid common mistakes and create signage that drives results. 1. Define Your Goals and Brand Identity Before choosing any business signs, ask: What message do you want to send? Is your brand modern and sleek, fun and approachable, or professional and upscale? Your signage should match your logo, colors, and overall vibe. For example, a boutique might lean toward elegant 3D channel letter signs, while a casual café could benefit from vibrant awning signs. 2. Research Local Regulations and Permits Orlando and Central Florida have specific sign codes zoning rules, size limits, illumination restrictions, and permit requirements. Skipping this step can lead to costly fines or forced removal. At Acme Signs and Prints, we help you through the entire permitting processing process to ensure your storefront signage comply fully to all local regulations within Florida. 3. Choose the Right Types of Storefront Signange Not all signs are created equal but business signs can help you build instant trust and brand recognition with your clients. Poor or missing storefront signage can cost you up to 40% of potential walk-ins. Here are top sign options for new businesses in Orlando, Casselbery and entire Central Florida: – Storefront Signs: The classic choice: mounted directly on your building facade to display your name and logo clearly from the street. – 3D Channel Letter Signs: These illuminated, individual 3D letters offer premium visibility day and night. Halo-lit or front-lit options make your business pop, especially for retail or professional services. – Awning Signs: Perfect for adding shade and branding. An awning with your logo or business name extends your presence and protects customers from Florida’s sun and rain. 4. Focus on Readability and Visibility Use bold, simple fonts (sans-serif works best) and high contrast colors, or simply use your brand font and elements with appropriate sizing. In Orlando’s bright sunlight and traffic, readability from 50 to 100 feet away is essential. Avoid clutter keep text to between 5 to 7 words max. 5. Decide on Lighting Illuminated signs (like 3D channel letter signs) are ideal for evening visibility and businesses open after dark. Non-illuminated options work well for daytime-only operations or budget-conscious startups. 6. Choose Materials that will last Florida weather demands UV-resistant, waterproof materials. Aluminum, acrylic, and high-grade vinyl hold up best against humidity, heat, and storms. 7. Plan for Installation and Maintenance Professional installation ensures safety and longevity of your storefront signs. At Acme Signs and Prints, we help you with sign design, fabrication, permitting and installation services under one roof. Ready to bring your business signage vision to life? Acme Signs and Prints specializes in custom business signs, 3D channel letter signs, awning signs, and storefront signs tailored for both new and existing businesses serving Orlando, Casselberry, Winter Park, Union Park and the entire Central Florida. Get your free quote today and make your storefront impossible to miss! Get A Quote Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Full Name *Email Address *Phone Number * Location/AddressProduct Name *Eg, Window Signs, Business Cards, Yard Signs, etcQuantity *WidthUnitFTINHeightUnitFTINProject Description *Upload File Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 5 files. Required file formats: .png, .gif, .jpg, .doc, .xls, .docx, .xlsx, .pdf – Maximum file size: 50 MB Submit Form