Learn About On-Premise and Off-Premise Signs

What’s the difference between off-premise and on-premise signs? GreenSigns has both in its inventory but sells their ad space quite differently.

Billboards are typically off-premise signs, and so is the majority of GreenSigns’ inventory. They advertise businesses or services not located on the property where the sign is situated. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) heavily regulates off-premise signs, especially those located on interstates and primary highways. IDOT requires state and local permits to before erecting a billboard; a sign without a permit is illegal and will be removed at the owner’s expense (and will result in fines).

On-premise signs, on the other hand, are those that advertise the business on the property where they are located. These signs are primarily regulated by local zoning ordinances, which set standards for aspects such as placement, size and height. The City of Chicago has specific regulations detailing the permissible dimensions and locations for on-premise signs to ensure they align with community aesthetics and safety considerations. Given the definition of an on-premise sign and the regulations that go with it, the actual contracting of on-premise signs is treated like a real estate transaction.

The newest addition to GreenSigns’ inventory is an on-premise sign referred to as the Windy City Spectacular. Located on I-90/94 at Logan Blvd, this gigantic two-sided digital comes with some amazing benefits: 100% share of voice (i.e. one advertiser per side), two screens (a 22' x 110' top display and a 8' x 64' message center panel), and a massive weekly audience (4.7 million inbound and 2.8 million outbound, per Geopath’s impression audit). The advertiser must enter into a lease agreement for the warehouse space on-site and obtain a “change of face” permit to get access to the sign. For that reason, a minimum one-year agreement is required.

The Windy City Spectacular is a landmark location with the potential to engage with millions of commuters each week. Is your brand a fit for this unique on-premise opportunity? Reach out to GreenSigns today to learn more.