Back to Previous Page

Visibility/Size

Many factors combine to determine the most effective sign size: Visibility, message content, emphasis, layout, and which (if any) header is used. 



Stonehouse recommends utilizing our sign design experience to help you determine the exact size of your sign- we make the process painless and will ensure your sign adheres to all the necessary guidelines.

Sign size should be determined by

  1. The distance at which the sign must be legible
  2. The time needed for the reader to avoid the potential hazard
  3. Whether favorable or unfavorable reading conditions exist.

This table gives you an idea of the recommended size of the letters and the sign, given the criteria above.

Capital Letter Height


Minimum Safe Viewing Distance

Typical Sign Size

(favorable conditions)(unfavorable conditions)
0.25"6 ft.3 ft.3.5" x 5"
0.50"13 ft.6 ft.3.5" x5"
0.75"19 ft.9 ft.5" x 7"
1"25 ft.12 ft.7" x 10"
1.5"38 ft.18 ft.10" x 14"
2"50 ft.24 ft.14" x 20"
2.5"63 ft.30 ft.14" x 20"
3"75 ft.36 ft.20" x 28"
3.5"88 ft.42 ft.20" x 28"
4"100 ft.48 ft.24" x 36"
5"125 ft.60 ft.24" x 36"
6"150 ft.71 ft.24" x 48"
7"175 ft.83 ft.36" x 60"
8"200 ft.95 ft.48" x 48"