If you’re wondering how much it costs to install a street sign in Nashville, TN, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re a city planner, a contractor, or a business owner looking for a custom sign, understanding the ins and outs of street sign installation is crucial for budgeting and compliance.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What factors influence the cost of street sign installation.
- Price ranges for basic and custom signs.
- Important installation requirements and legal rules to follow.
- The differences between standard road signs and custom business signage.
- How to avoid surprises and ensure your sign meets safety and visibility standards.
Street Sign Installation Process: What You Need To Know
If you want to install a street sign here are the steps you’ll need to make sure it’s done correctly and legally in Nashville, TN:
- Site Evaluation: First, the location is reviewed to determine the best placement.
- Choosing the Right Sign: The correct type of sign is selected based on its purpose (e.g., directional, warning, or informational).
- Visibility Check: The sign must be easy to see from the road, day or night.
- MUTCD Guidelines: The sign must follow the rules set by the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
- Legal Compliance: The installation must follow all local and state laws.
Who handles the installation?
- Public Signs (like traffic or street signs): These are usually installed by the city or county.
- Private or Business Signs: Property owners or developers are responsible for hiring a professional sign installer or sign company.
What does installation involve?
The process may include digging or groundwork, installing poles, adding mounting brackets, and making sure the sign meets local standards for visibility, reflectivity, and readability.
Street Sign Installation Costs in Nashville, TN
Whether you’re putting up a private road sign, business entrance sign, or directional signage, knowing the breakdown of costs can help you budget more accurately.
Cost Breakdown Table
| Item | Estimated Cost Range | Details |
| Basic sign (standard, reflective) | $100 – $500 | Aluminum sign with reflective sheeting (standard road sign size). |
| Custom sign (logo, branding, special colors) | $300 – $1,000+ | Designed with unique graphics, logos, fonts, or non-standard shapes. |
| Labor (per hour) | $50 – $150 | Depends on installer’s experience and job complexity. |
| Installation time | 2 – 6 hours | Includes digging, mounting, alignment, and safety checks. |
| Materials (posts, brackets, hardware) | $50 – $300 | Based on post type (steel vs aluminum), hardware, and mounting needs. |
| Reflectivity upgrades or visibility aids
| $20 – $100 | High-intensity reflective film or solar lighting. |
| Permit fees (private signs) | $50 – $200+ | Required by the city for signage near roads or sidewalks. |
| Traffic rerouting or safety equipment
| $100 – $500+ | If installing near busy roads or intersections. |
Example Installation Cost
Let’s say you’re installing a custom business entrance sign on private property in Nashville:
- Custom aluminum sign with branding: $450
- Post and mounting hardware: $150
- Labor (3 hours @ $100/hr): $300
- Permit fee: $100
- Total estimated cost: $1,000
If your sign needs to go near a busy street or sidewalk and requires traffic cones, signage, or rerouting, expect to add $200–$400 more for safety and setup.
Key Things to Remember
- Public street signs (like stop signs) are typically installed and paid for by the city.
- Private property owners or developers are responsible for all costs related to business signs.
- Prices can go up if the design is custom, the location is difficult to access, or if local laws require additional permitting or inspections.
What Types of Street Signs Are Most Common?
In Nashville, common types of signs include:
- Traffic control signs (stop, yield, speed limit)
- Street name signs
- Directional signs for public facilities
- Business signs on private property
Most street signs use reflective aluminum for better visibility, especially at night. Aluminum signs are preferred due to their durability, resistance to weather, and ease of installation.
What’s the Difference Between Flat-Blade Street Signs and Extruded Signs?
When choosing a street name sign, you’ll often hear about flat-blade street signs and extruded signs. Here’s the difference:
- Flat-blade street signs are lightweight, less expensive, and easy to install. They’re typically used in residential neighborhoods or low-traffic areas.
- Extruded street signs are thicker and stronger, designed for heavy-duty use at busy intersections or highways. They’re among the most expensive due to the extra material and durability.
Knowing which type to use helps you plan better for both installation and long-term maintenance. Some signs need to be replaced less often, making extruded signs a more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Do You Need a Permit to Install a Street Sign in Nashville?
Yes—sign installation in Nashville often requires a permit, especially for signs installed on public property or near a roadway. The Metro Public Works department governs the approval process and may request diagrams, traffic impact reports, and fabrication specifications.
For business owners, installing a custom sign on a commercial building also falls under the Metropolitan Government of Nashville’s sign ordinance, which ensures the signs provide clear, safe communication and don’t interfere with traffic control systems.
Permits usually range between $50 and $200, depending on the scope of the project and whether zoning variances are needed.
What Materials Are Used in Durable Road Signs?
Most road signs are made from reflective aluminum backed with sheeting for enhanced visibility. These materials are engineered to be high-quality, durable, and weather-resistant.
Options include:
- High-intensity reflective sheeting
- Diamond-grade reflective materials for maximum legibility
- Corrugate aluminum or composite backing for strength
Investing in the highest quality materials can actually save you money over time by reducing how often signs need to be replaced.
What Factors Affect Sign Installation Cost the Most?
Several variables affect how much you’ll pay to install a sign in Nashville. These include:
- Type of sign (basic vs. custom sign)
- Location of the installation (urban vs. rural)
- Accessibility and terrain
- Need for traffic control
- Installation hardware and accessory requirements
Don’t forget inflation—recent years have seen price hikes in types of materials and labor, increasing the average cost across the board. Working with a professional commercial sign company helps provide an accurate cost upfront.
What Should Business Owners Know About Custom Sign Installation?
For business owners in Nashville, custom sign installation can elevate branding and draw attention to a storefront. Unlike standard street signs, business sign installation often includes logos, colors, and creative designs that match your identity.
These signs are often priced per square foot, with an average business spending between $300 and $2,000, depending on the sign made and materials used. The process usually includes design consultation, fabrication, permitting, and professional installation.
Some companies offer fast shipping for custom orders and will assemble and install your sign for an additional fee.
How to Find a Reliable Sign Installer in Nashville?
Choosing the right sign installer ensures the job is done safely and up to code. Look for a local sign company that:
- Understands Nashville’s codes and zoning requirements
- Offers warranties on installation
- Has positive reviews and a local portfolio
A skilled installer helps you navigate permits, provides high-quality signs manufactured with care, and prevents costly errors. When in doubt, contact us today to discuss your signage needs and get a tailored quote.
Need a Sign Installed in Nashville? We’ve Got You Covered.
At MetroCenter Signworks, we make getting a street or business sign installed easy and stress-free.
Whether you need a custom sign for your property, a private road sign, or something that follows city rules, we can handle the whole process from start to finish.
And if you are not sure what kind of sign you need, we offer free consultations. Just give us a call, tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll help you find the best solution that fits your needs and budget.
Summary: What to Remember About Sign Installation in Nashville
- Street sign installation involves more than just installing a post-it includes permits, safety compliance, and material choice.
- Sign cost depends on size, material, and whether it’s a custom sign or standard road sign.
- The average cost per sign in Nashville ranges from $150 to $1,000, including installation costs.
- Reflective aluminum and sheeting improve visibility and meet MUTCD standards.
- Flat-blade street signs are more affordable, while extruded signs are heavy-duty and longer-lasting.
- Permit requirements vary by location and type of installation.
- Business owners can expect to pay per square foot and benefit from high-impact signage.
- Labor costs and materials are affected by inflation, project complexity, and design upgrades.
- Always hire a professional commercial sign installer for the best results.
- When you need a reliable quote and quick turnaround, contact us today to get started.
Now that you know what’s involved in installing a street sign, you might be thinking about other sign options for your business. Maybe a pylon sign or a monument sign? Which is the better choice?
We break it down for you in our blog: Pylon Sign vs. Monument Sign: Which Is Best for Your Business?—check it out to see which one fits your needs best.
FAQs
Q. Are street signs expensive?
A. Street signs can vary in price depending on the materials, size, and complexity. Basic street signs made of aluminum with reflective coating usually cost between $100 and $500, but custom signs with logos or special designs can cost more. Installation and permits can add to the total cost.
Q. How much does it cost to build a sign?
A. The cost to build a sign depends on factors like size, materials, design complexity, and whether it’s custom or standard. Basic signs can start around $100, while larger or branded signs can range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Q. How much do professional signs cost?
A. Professional signs typically cost between $300 and $1,000 or more, depending on design, materials, and installation needs. Custom signs with logos or special features tend to be on the higher end of the price range.
Q. How much does a pole sign cost?
A. Pole signs usually cost between $1,000 and $10,000 depending on size, materials, height, and complexity. Installation and permits can add to the cost, especially for taller or illuminated signs.
Q. How much does it cost to hang a sign?
A. Hanging a sign typically costs between $150 and $1,000 depending on the sign’s size, weight, location, and installation complexity. Labor rates and any necessary permits can also affect the price.
Q. What is the difference between a pole sign and a pylon sign?
A. A pole sign is usually a single sign mounted on a tall pole, often seen along highways or large properties. A pylon sign is similar but generally larger and supported by two or more poles with a wider base, making it more stable and visible from a distance.