A local zoning or sign code will normally regulate the location, number, size, etc. of business signs. For example, a typical code might specify that:
a business is permitted only the following permanent signs: one wall sign, one freestanding sign, and one directional sign at each vehicular entry/exit.
the wall sign must be located on the front of the business, and may not exceed (a specified maximum size).
the freestanding sign must be set back [a specified distance] from the public right-of-way, and may not exceed (a specified maximum height and size).
the directional sign must be within (a specified distance) from the edge of the entry/exit, must be set back [a specified distance] from the public right-of-way, and may not exceed a (specified maximum height and size).
It is common for sign regulations, like those above, to vary depending on the zoning district in which a business is located. For example, businesses located in a Highway Business district might be allowed larger or taller signs than those located in a Local Business district. Such differences in regulatory treatment may be justified by differences in the size and speed of the roadways in each district.
Local governments are increasingly under scrutiny by federal and state courts to assure that differing treatment between sign users does not offend the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the Constitution.
