The self storage industry in Dallas is experiencing explosive growth—and with that growth comes increased competition. In this dynamic market, the ability to capture attention at a glance, cultivate unwavering brand trust, and provide crystal-clear navigation is more critical than ever for self-storage operators.

Whether you’re launching a brand-new facility or undertaking a strategic rebrand of an existing one, your self storage signage needs to strike the perfect balance between maximizing visibility, ensuring seamless functionality, adhering to all compliance requirements, and maintaining cost-efficiency.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll cover the essentials of signage permitting in Dallas, outline the must-have signage types for self-storage operators, and provide expert insights from the BlinkSigns team to help you succeed in this competitive market.

Permitting for Self Storage Signage in Dallas: Navigating the Regulations

Dallas operates under the Dallas Development CodeArticle VII: Sign Regulations. While self-storage facilities are typically located within commercial or light industrial zones, it’s crucial to understand that local regulations still apply and must be strictly adhered to.

Here are the key guidelines for self storage signage in Dallas:

1. Monument Signs:

  • Height: Generally allowed up to a maximum of 8 feet.
  • Area: Typically capped at 50 square feet per sign face.

2. Wall Signs:

  • Allowed on building facades that face public streets.
  • Limited by building frontage—usually to a maximum of 1.5 square feet per linear foot.

3. Pylon Signs:

  • Commonly used for facilities located along major roadways to maximize visibility.
  • Height and square footage allowances vary depending on zoning, and these signs require a special sign permit.

4. Directional & Informational Signs:

  • Exempt from permitting requirements if they are under 6 square feet and non-illuminated.

5. Permitting Process:

  • Managed by the City of Dallas Building Inspection Division.
  • Applications are submitted online through the ProjectDox and ePlan portals.
  • Typical review timeline: 7–15 business days.

Must-Have Signage Products for Self Storage Facilities: Maximizing Impact

Self-storage signage must achieve three key goals: maximize visibility to attract customers, guide customers clearly throughout the facility, and build trust through consistent and professional branding.

Here are the essential signage product categories for self-storage facilities:

1. Primary Identification & Branding:

Primary Identification & Branding

Primary Identification & Branding

Make your brand recognizable and visible from the road or highway to capture potential customers.

Our Recommendations:

  • Monument Signs with tenant brand or franchise logo: Create a strong and professional first impression.
  • Pylon Signs with LED price or vacancy boards: Maximize visibility and provide valuable information.
  • Channel Letter Signs (Front-lit or Halo-lit) on main buildings: Offer a clean, modern, and highly visible branding solution.
  • Backlit Logo Panels for a Premium Finish: Project a sophisticated, high-quality image.

2. Directional & Wayfinding Signage:

Directional and Wayfinding Signage

Directional & Wayfinding Signage

Make navigation easy for tenants and reduce on-site confusion to enhance customer satisfaction.

Our Recommendations:

  • Post & Panel Signs (Entrance / Exit / Loading Zone): Direct traffic flow and facility access.
  • Unit Block Signs (Building A–Z / 100s / 200s): Provide clear and intuitive unit identification.
  • Ground-mounted Arrows with painted or applied overlays: Guide tenants to their specific units.
  • Parking & Access Route Signs: Streamline traffic and enhance on-site navigation.

3. Gate & Access Control Signage:

Gate & Access Control Signage

Gate & Access Control Signage

Reinforce security measures while effectively guiding tenant behavior at entry points.

Our Recommendations:

  • Gate Hours Signs (Illuminated or Reflective): Communicate access hours.
  • “Code Required for Entry” Signs: Provide clear instructions for entry procedures.
  • Intercom & Access Instructions Panels: Facilitate smooth entry and communication.
  • Emergency Contact Info Placards: Provide essential information for after-hours assistance.

4. Regulatory & Compliance Signage:

Regulatory & Compliance Signage

Regulatory & Compliance Signage

Ensure full compliance with all city, fire, and ADA guidelines to avoid penalties and create an accessible environment.

Our Recommendations:

  • ADA Unit Access Signs (with Braille): Provide accessibility for all tenants.
  • Fire Lane & Emergency Exit Signs: Ensure safety and compliance with fire codes.
  • Speed Limit & Safety Signs: Promote safety within the facility.
  • Surveillance & No Trespassing Notices: Deter unauthorized activity and enhance security.

5. Interior Signage & Amenities:

Interior Signage and Amenities

Interior Signage and Amenities

Support tenants and enhance their experience with clear and informative facility signage.

Our Recommendations:

  • Office Hours Signs (Front Door or Lobby): Communicate operating hours.
  • Restroom / Elevator / Loading Area Signs: Provide clear directions to essential amenities.
  • Payment Kiosk Instructions: Guide tenants through payment procedures.
  • Retail Product Area Signage (Boxes, Locks, etc.): Enhance sales and provide information.

Signage Tips by Industry Experts: The BlinkSigns Advantage

Dallas is an incredibly competitive market. Visibility is absolutely everything. We consistently recommend LED-lit monument signs near high-traffic roads and polished, professional entry signage that reinforces your facility’s credibility and reliability.

Steve Weber

Steve Weber
National Sales Manager

Pro Tips for Storage Operators in Dallas: Ensuring Success

  • Don’t Overlook Permits: Pylon signs and LED boards require special approvals. Ensure you obtain all necessary permits to avoid delays and penalties.
  • Design for Heat & Visibility: Utilize UV-stable inks and select materials specifically rated for high sun exposure to maintain vibrancy and prevent damage.
  • Use Modular Panels: These are a great solution for updating tenant or ownership information without requiring complete sign replacement, saving you time and money.
  • Keep It Clean & Trustworthy: Clean, well-maintained signage conveys professionalism and instills trust in your self-storage facility.
  • Invest in Gate Signage: Clear and concise access instructions at your facility’s gate reduce tenant frustration and support efficient 24/7 operations.
Pro Tips for Storage Operators in Dallas_ Ensuring Success - Infographics by BlinkSigns

Pro Tips for Storage Operators in Dallas – Infographics by BlinkSigns

Conclusion: Elevate Your Self Storage Business with BlinkSigns

In Dallas, a thoughtfully designed and properly permitted sign is far more than just a marketing expense—it’s a critical competitive advantage. From maximizing visibility to implementing security-focused access signage, your self-storage facility requires signage that checks every single box: compliant, durable, and powerfully brand-forward.

BlinkSigns is proud to partner with self-storage brands nationwide, delivering high-impact signage solutions that consistently work—on time, on brand, and on budget.

Ready to upgrade your self-storage signage in Dallas and take your business to the next level📈? Contact BlinkSigns today to schedule a free site survey and receive a customized signage proposal. Let’s make your facility shine.