When it comes to getting new signage for a business, one of the first questions we often hear is, “How long will it take?” The answer can vary a lot depending on a few key steps that go into the process. From gathering ideas and measuring the space to installing the final structure, every phase plays a role in how long the full project takes.
As a Jacksonville sign company familiar with the holiday rush, we have seen how good planning can make the difference between a smooth install and a missed window. This is especially true going into winter, when businesses want signs ready before the December crowds. Taking a closer look at each step helps shed light on what to expect and when to start.
Planning and Design Timeframes
Every sign begins with a plan. Visual concepts, layout mockups, and branding elements all take time to pull together. We work through design ideas with customers, taking measurements on-site and adjusting layouts so everything looks clear and balanced once installed.
• If the sign is part of a rebrand or includes new colors or fonts, it may take a few extra days to get the design just right
• Holiday themes or seasonal additions, like lighting or festive colors, can require extra coordination ahead of peak events
• Approving designs early helps us move forward faster when timelines get tight
Late November is no time for guesswork, especially with shopping centers and event spaces filling up fast for the holidays. If your goal is to catch those seasonal crowds, it is smart to treat the planning stage as something to check off sooner rather than later.
Permitting and Local Approvals
After a final design gets the green light, we often need to get permits before building or installing anything. This step depends on local rules, especially here in Jacksonville, Florida. Outdoor signs like channel letters, monument signs, or anything lighted usually require city approval.
• Permits might come from the city building department, a shopping center manager, or both
• Timelines for permits can stretch if there are zoning checks or missing documents
• Knowing the rules, and which ones apply in specific areas, can help keep things moving
When working with a Jacksonville sign company that knows local codes, the process tends to go faster. As we get closer to December, cities can get backlogged with requests. That is why we suggest building in enough time for this part from the very beginning.
Fabrication and Material Sourcing
Once the permit is secured, we jump into the fabrication stage. This is when the sign truly starts to come to life, with materials like aluminum, acrylic, vinyl, or LED components coming together in our shop. The time this takes can be short or long, depending on a few factors.
• A sign with custom lighting or stainless steel lettering can take longer than a basic panel
• If specific materials are backordered or not in stock, shipments could delay the build
• Signs made in-house tend to move quicker since we do not have to rely on outside vendors
At General Sign Service Corporation’s Jacksonville facility, we have extensive on-site manufacturing capabilities, reducing turnaround time for many projects. Custom fabrication is handled in-house, which helps avoid third-party delays and gives us more control over design changes and last-minute updates.
As we head into late November, one thing we keep an eye on is shipping schedules. Holidays often slow down deliveries, and we aim to get ahead of that when ordering parts. The earlier this phase begins, the better our chances of staying on track.
Installation Scheduling and Weather Considerations
Installing a sign takes coordination, especially in Florida where weather can shift quickly. Here in Jacksonville, late November usually brings mild temperatures, but pop-up rainstorms and windy days can still interrupt an outdoor job. We always plan with that in mind.
• Install time depends on what type of sign it is; wall-mounted signs go up faster than freestanding units
• Some properties need after-hours installs or extra equipment like lifts or staging in public areas
• Safety is key, so we only install when the weather makes it safe to do so
General Sign Service Corporation is Northeast Florida’s only Underwriter’s Laboratory certified sign manufacturer, which means we follow strict safety practices on every install and can handle high-rise or specialty signage with professional teams.
With Black Friday and other big shopping weekends falling in late November, businesses often want signs up before then. We look at both site needs and seasonal patterns when setting install times so nothing feels rushed or uncertain.
How Far in Advance You Should Start
A sign project might seem pretty straightforward on the surface, but when you add up all the moving parts, it is easy to see the benefit of starting early. For holiday-ready signage, we recommend getting started at least a couple of months ahead when possible.
• Design approvals, permits, fabrication, and scheduling all mean a quick job may still take several weeks
• If November is your goal, planning in September or early October helps give enough breathing room
• Heading into December, installer schedules tend to fill fast, especially for end-of-year efforts
Even signs that seem simple need time to get done right. Clear communication and early steps are what help businesses avoid surprises and get noticed at just the right time.
Stay Ahead with Smart Timing Choices
Understanding how long a sign takes from start to finish is not just about having patience. It is about planning ahead so your business is ready when people are most likely to look your way.
Projects in Jacksonville, Florida, follow a familiar rhythm. Planning, permits, materials, weather, and install steps all line up in a chain. One delay early on can push everything back, which is why we approach timelines like a chain of connection points, not separate steps.
Having a good grasp of what goes into the process makes it easier to know when to begin. With a strong plan and a little extra lead time, your signs can be ready exactly when you need them.
At General Sign Service Corporation, we understand how important timing is, especially during the busy holiday season. Every stage, from planning and permitting to fabrication and installation, relies on a seamless, coordinated process. That is why so many businesses throughout the city count on us for signage that looks impressive and arrives exactly when it is needed. When you need a trusted Jacksonville sign company to keep your project on track this season, we are here to help you move forward, just give us a call to discuss your ideas and next steps.