Signs Types - STREET SIGNAGE

Letter style should be a simple readable font legible under all conditions (twilight, night, rain, fog, etc.) Complex or ornate styles lose visibility rapidly as light conditions lessen.

Colors: Sharp contrast between background and letters are optimal. Color recognition diminishes as light lessens. Contrast remains effective. Soft or pastel colors become almost invisible in poor light.

Simple background shapes are most effective for readability (square, rectangle, circle & oval). Generous margin & letter spacing add to effectiveness. Decorative applications have no effect on visibility as long as they don't interfere with the message.

21/2 second rule: A sign must be comprehensible within a viewing time of 2-3 seconds. Elaborate copy and fonts become ineffective when they cause more viewing times because of complexity.

Signs should become readable at a distance of 100 feet in a slow moving vehicle a minimum of 2 1/2" to 3" letter is required.

Conditions of poor visibility occur more than clear conditions. (Twilight, night, cloudy days, rain, fog, late fall, early winter). Headlight reflective signage is suggested for maximum effectiveness.