If you’re searching for high-quality, custom monument signagein Ventura, Santa Barbara, or Los Angeles Counties—and beyond—look no further.

At Dave’s Signs, we specialize in designing, fabricating, and installing monument signsthat stand out day and night.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:

• What monument signs areand why they matter  
• Key benefits, types, and common materials  
• Installation requirements, including zoning and permits 
• Frequently asked questionsabout monument signs 
• How to choosethe right monument sign company

Whether you need a classic brick monument signfor a corporate campus or an illuminated LED monument signfor a shopping center, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.

TLDR: Ready to get started?Call Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ for a free consultation today or Request a Quoteonline!

What is a Monument Sign?

A monument sign is a freestanding, ground-level structure that provides long-term visibility and brand recognition. Typically standing between 3 and 8 feet tall, these durable signs are constructed from brick, stone, metal, concrete, or high-density urethane (HDU).

Monument signs sit at eye level, making them exceptionally visible to pedestrians and drivers alike.

Exterior monument signs are an ideal choice for:

• Businesses looking to reinforce their brand identity
• Shopping malls that want a cohesive identity and clear direction for multiple tenants
• Schools and universities that need clear wayfinding
• Residential communities and hotels seeking a professional entrance sign
• Organizations wanting to stand out from surrounding properties

Have questionsabout which monument sign might be right for your property? Contact Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ today for expert guidance and a free quote.

8 Key Benefits of Monument Signs

Investing in a monument sign is a long-term solution for branding, visibility, and wayfinding.

1 – Increased Visibility & Brand Recognition

Positioned at eye level, monument signs make it easier for customers and visitors to locate your business. This 24/7 visibility reinforces brand identity and helps establish your location.

2 – Professional & Prestigious Appearance

The low-profile design of monument signage—often crafted from sturdy materials—conveys permanence. Businesses with monument signs project an image of credibility and stability.

3 – Customization for Unique Branding

Add logos, dimensional lettering, custom color schemes, LED illumination, or digital displays. This versatility ensures your monument sign reflects your brands personality.

4 – Durability & Weather Resistance

Made from materials like concrete, brick, and stone, these signs can withstand harsh weather conditions for years—even decades—when well-maintained.

5 – Wayfinding & Navigation Assistance 

Monument signs are critical for large complexes, shopping centers, hospitals, universities, and residential communities. Clear signage simplifies directions and reduces confusion.

6 – Nighttime Visibility

Illumination options—such as backlit panels, LED lighting, and halo-lit lettering—ensure your business remains visible after dark, enhancing both curb appeal and security.

7 – Compliance with Local Zoning Regulations

Many municipalities favor monument signs over taller pylon signs or billboards. Their lower height often meets local zoning requirements and community aesthetic guidelines more easily.

8 – Long-Term Cost Effectiveness

Monument signs are one-time investments that provide continuous exposure without monthly advertising fees. Their longevity translates to a better return on investment over time.

Want to enjoy these benefits for your business?Call Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ to discuss your custom monument sign options.

Top 10 Types of Monument Signs

There’s a wide range of monument sign styles, each suited to different branding needs and budgets. Here are the most popular:

1 – Masonry Monument Signs (Brick or Stone)

• Built with durable materials like brick, stone, concrete, or stucco
• Offer a timeless, upscale appearance
• Ideal for schools, corporate offices, and residential communities

2 – Panel Monument Signs

• Feature a flat display panel made from metal, acrylic, or HDU
• Highly customizable and easy to update
• Perfect for shopping malls, retail stores, and business parks

3 – Illuminated Monument Signs

• Equipped with LED or internal illumination for visibility at night
• Commonly used by hotels, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities
• Ensures round-the-clock branding

4 – Digital/LED Monument Signs

• Changeable messaging for promotions, announcements, or events
• Ideal for schools, churches, and retail outlets with frequent updates
• Can display dynamic, eye-catching content
• Check out our post: Monument Signs for Churches

5 – Post and Panel Monument Signs

• A more affordable option supported by vertical posts
• Lightweight and easy to install, often used for directional signage
• Suitable for real estate developments, business parks, and temporary signage

6 – Metal Monument Signs

• Made from aluminum, stainless steel, or bronze
• Sleek, modern aesthetic with exceptional durability
• Great for car dealerships, industrial parks, or contemporary designs

7 – Wood Monument Signs

• Provide a rustic, natural charm
• Common in residential communities, parks, or historic districts
• Require more maintenance than other materials

8 – Architectural Monument Signs

• Fully customized to match surrounding buildings or landscaping
• Blend multiple materials like stone, glass, and metal
• Common in luxury residential communities and corporate campuses

9 – Eco-Friendly Monument Signs

• Use recycled or sustainable materials and energy-efficient LED lighting
• Ideal for businesses and properties emphasizing green initiatives
• Or properties that want that natural look and feel

10 – Monument Signage with Dimensional Lettering

• Feature raised or recessed letters for a 3D look
• Made from metal, acrylic, or HDU
• Offer a premium, high-end appearance

 

Not sure which type best fits your brand or budget? Contact Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ for a personalized recommendation. You can also Request a Quote online.

Top 10 Monument Sign Materials

Choosing the right material impacts durability, appearance, and overall cost. Here are the Top 10 most popular materials for monument signage:

1 – Brick Monument Sign

• Classic, weather-resistant, and long-lasting
• Conveys an upscale, traditional feel
• Perfect for schools, corporate offices, and residential communities

2 – Stone (Natural or Manufactured)

• High-end, elegant appearance
• Can be carved or engraved for added sophistication
• Frequently used for luxury developments, golf courses, and high-end venues

3 – Concrete or Precast Concrete

• Among the most durable materials
• Resistant to weather, vandalism, and heavy impact
• Ideal for office complexes, hospitals, and municipal properties

4 – Stucco

• Lightweight, cost-effective alternative to brick or stone
• Can be smooth or textured to match building exteriors
• Popular for retail centers, apartment complexes, and business parks

5 – High-Density Urethane (HDU)

• Versatile, weather-resistant, and lightweight
• Easily carved or shaped to replicate wood, stone, or metal
• Great for intricate designs and branding

6 – Medium Density Overlay (MDO)

• Strong, durable, and cost-effective
• Smooth, paintable surface for crisp graphics and lettering
• Ideal for temporary or budget-friendly outdoor signage

  

7 – Metal (Aluminum, Stainless Steel, or Bronze)

• Modern, sleek aesthetic with excellent durability
• Aluminum and stainless steel resist rust and corrosion
• Bronze offers a prestigious, historical look for commemorative signs

8 – Wood

• A natural, rustic option
• Often carved or sandblasted for a textured, dimensional effect
• Requires regular maintenance to prevent weather damage

9 – Acrylic or Polycarbonate Panels

• Used frequently in illuminated monument signs
• Provide a smooth surface for branding and graphics
• Polycarbonate is impact-resistant; acrylic offers a crisp, modern look

10 – LED or Digital Displays

• Integrate dynamic, real-time messaging into the sign
• Great for schools, churches, and entertainment venues
• Higher initial cost but high visibility and flexibility

Need help choosing the perfect material for your exterior monument signs? Call Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ to discuss your project requirements and budget.

Monument Sign Design: 5 Key Factors

A well-designed monument sign enhances visibility, brand recognition, and impact. Consider these factors:

1 – Size & Scale

The sign should be large enough to be visible from the road without overwhelming the property. Check zoning regulations for height and width restrictions.

2 – Colors & Fonts

Use high-contrast color schemes for readability and avoid overly decorative fonts. Ensure the design aligns with your brand identity.

3 – Logos & Graphics

Keep logos proportional, use simple yet meaningful graphics, and maintain consistency with your branding and marketing materials.

4 – Lighting & Illumination

Consider backlit, halo-lit, or LED lighting for 24/7 visibility. Digital displays allow for dynamic content updates and improved nighttime readability.

5 – Placement & Landscaping

Position the sign unobstructed by trees or structures, and enhance curb appeal with landscaping elements like shrubs and decorative rocks. Ensure safe placement away from traffic or pedestrian pathways.

Looking for Monument Sign Ideas?

Check out our Monument Sign Gallery above and our Property Management Sign Gallery for great ideas. Then, call us to discuss how we can create the custom monument sign you want.

Want an entrance sign that truly stands out? Let our design expertsat Dave’s Signscreate the perfect concept for your brand—Contact us at (805) 641-1387‬ today!

Permits and Monument Sign Installation: 5 Important Steps

Proper installation ensures safety, compliance, and long-term durability. Here’s what to expect:  

1 – Zoning & Permits

Local regulations dictate sign size, height, lighting, and placement. Dave’s Signsmanages permits to ensure compliance, especially in historical districts.  

2 – Site Preparation

The site is marked according to property lines and setback requirements, a concrete foundationis installed, and electrical wiringis run for illuminated or digital signs.  

3 – Fabrication & Assembly

Custom materials like brick, stone, metal, or acrylicare cut and assembled, with logos, lettering, and protective coatings applied for durability.  

4 – Installation

The sign is transported, securely anchored, and wired for lighting. A final inspectionensures stability and a polished appearance.  

5 – Maintenance

Routine cleaning, bulb or LED replacements,and foundation checkshelp preserve the sign’s quality and visibility for years to come.

Ready for a stress-free installation process? Call Dave’s Signsat (805) 641-1387‬ for a turnkey solution—permits, fabrication, and installation all in one place.

Monument Signage FAQs

Q: What is the difference between a freestanding sign and a monument sign?

A: A freestanding sign is any sign that stands on its own, supported by a structure rather than attached to a building. This includes pylon signs, post and panel signs, and monument signs.

A monument sign is a specific type of freestanding sign, typically low-profile, permanent, and made from durable materials like stone, brick, or metal, offering a professional, ground-level appearance.

Q: What is the difference between monument and pylon signs?

A: Monument signs are low-profile, typically 3–8 feet tall, designed for eye-level visibility and a professional appearance, making them ideal for corporate offices, schools, and residential communities.

In contrast, pylon signsare much taller (often 20+ feet) and built for long-distance visibility, commonly used by gas stations and hotels near highways.

Want to learn more about pylon signs? Check out: Pylon Signs: The Ultimate Guide.

Q: What is the difference between a marquee sign and a monument sign?

A: Monument signs are static, low-profile structures that provide permanent branding and are typically made from brick, stone, or metal. They are designed for long-term visibility and blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Marquee signs, however, feature changeable letter boards or digital displays, making them ideal for theaters, churches, and event venues that frequently update messages. They offer a more dynamic way to communicate promotions, schedules, or announcements compared to monument signs.

Q: What is the difference between a post and panel sign and a monument sign?

A: Monument signs are permanent, durable structures made from brick, stone, or metal, designed for long-term branding and high visibility.

Post and panel signs are lighter, temporary, and cost-effective, often used for directional signage, real estate, or construction sites. They typically rely on external lighting, while monument signs can have built-in illumination.

Still undecidedon the best signage solution? Contact Dave’s Signsat ‭(805) 641-1387‬ for an expert consultation!

Choosing the Right Monument Sign Company Near Me

Selecting a reputable sign provider ensures your monument sign is high-quality, durable, and beautifully designed. Here’s what to look for—and why Dave’s Signs fits the bill:

Experience & Expertise

Choose a company with decades of experience and a proven track record. Dave’s Signs has built hundreds of monument signs across various industries, from monument and pylon signs to full signage systems. Many property owners hire us at the start of a projectto ensure a seamless design, permitting, and installation process.

Custom Design Capabilities

Your business sign should align with your brand and architecture. Dave’s Signs provides expert in-house design services, collaborating on logos, colors, and materials to create a sign that stands out. Whether starting from scratch, following existing branding, or working with an architectural team, we tailor each design to meet your vision.

Full-Service Solutions

From concept and permits to fabrication and installation, a full-service provider streamlines the process and saves you time. Dave’s Signs handles every step, delivering a seamless, turnkey experience for your monument signage project.

Local & Nationwide Service

Dave’s Signs proudly serves Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles Counties, and beyond, managing both single-location and multi-site projects with expertise and efficiency.

Have questions?

Call us today at (805) 641-1387‬ we are always happy to help and answer any questions you may have. You can also Request a Quote online to start your monument sign project!

Choosing the right outdoor building signs is essential to the success of your company, no matter where you are located – Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles or Nationwide. There are many factors to consider when choosing exterior signage, including size, shape, material, design, and whether or not it’s going to be a lighted sign. The most important factor is to choose a sign that accurately reflects your brand identity.

If you’re thinking about investing in outdoor building signs for your business, keep reading to learn what you’ll need to know about choosing the right signs for your organization.

Introduction: Why custom building signage is important for businesses

Custom outdoor building signs are one of the most important marketing tools for businesses. They help to identify your business to potential customers, and they can be used to convey unique and important information about your products or services. Signs can also be used to create a sense of brand visibility, helping to build customer loyalty.

In addition, custom exterior signs can help you to stand out from your competition and make your business more visible in the community. Outdoor signs play an essential role in the success of any business. If you are not using building signs to promote your business, you are missing out on a powerful marketing tool.

The different types of building signs available

There are a variety of building signs available to suit the needs of any business. Here are a few of the most popular.

Blade Signs

Blade signs are a popular choice for many businesses, as they are highly visible and can be mounted on a building’s wall or eave. These signs are also called projecting signs, hanging signs, and flat panel signs. They are ideal for strip malls, downtown businesses, and areas with high pedestrian traffic.

If your business has a sidewalk in front, installing a blade sign is an excellent way to increase foot traffic and boost sales. They also make it easier to see when driving by because the viewer can see the sign looking forward without having to turn their head.

Dimensional Letters

Dimensional letters are also quite popular, as they give a building’s facade depth and dimension. Dimensional letter signs use three-dimensional lettering or a custom logo (as opposed to flat panels).

Metal letters, plastic cut letters, or 3-D graphics are also known as dimensional letter signs. They’re not only appealing and weather resistant but also cost-effective, making them a great choice for anybody looking to have a high-quality sign on a tighter budget. When paired with spotlights, they look fantastic, ensuring that the sign is seen at night and during the evening hours.

Illuminated Signs

Illuminated signs are an excellent choice for businesses that want to stand out, as they can be seen even at night or in low-light conditions. Whatever the need, there is a building sign that can help businesses to reach their target audience. If your business is open at night, lighted signs are an absolute necessity. Not only do they help people find and engage with your business, but they provide high visibility day and night.

Channel Letters

Channel letters are another popular option for outdoor signs, as they can be custom-sized to fit any space and are illuminated for greater visibility.

Channel letters are three-dimensional illuminated letters and graphics that are often seen on stores at shopping centers, restaurants, specialty stores, and pretty much every type of business location. They’re an excellent way to identify your business. By forming each letter separately and giving it its own light source, you create an effect that is sure to impress potential customers.

Neon Signs

Neon signs are a popular type of lighted sign that uses neon gas to create a bright, attention-getting display. Neon signs were first developed in the early 1900s, and they quickly became a popular way to advertise businesses and products.

Today, neon signs are used for a wide variety of purposes, from promoting businesses to highlighting landmarks and tourist attractions. Neon signs are often considered to be works of art, and they are still a popular choice for outdoor signs.

Neon signs are durable and long-lasting, and they can be customized to fit any need. Whether you’re looking for a simple business sign or an iconic work of art, neon signs offer an eye-catching solution.

Monument Signs

Monument signs are a type of signage that is freestanding and usually located at the entrance of a business park, shopping mall, hotel, restaurant, or residential community, like an apartment complex.

This type of outdoor sign is often made out of stone, brick, or concrete to give them a more permanent look.

For businesses, monument signs can be an excellent way to advertise your company name and logo to customers driving or walking by. Most often, these are lighted signs using many forms, including channel letters, dimensional letters, and lightbox signs – shopping malls with individual business names added, for example.

Monument signs are also commonly used in parks and other public spaces to help visitors find their way around.

In addition to their practical purposes, monument signs can also be used to add aesthetic appeal to a property. Well-designed monument signs can be eye-catching and make a positive first impression on visitors.

If you are looking for a way to improve the visibility and curb appeal of your business or public space, a monument sign may be the ideal solution.

Pylon Signs

Pylon signs, aka pole signs, are a type of freestanding business sign that is often used for advertising businesses or promoting special events. Pylon signs are usually tall and thin, with a large base that helps to stabilize the structure. The height of pylon signs makes them highly visible from a distance, which is ideal for getting the attention of potential customers or passersby.

Pylon signs can be lit from within, making them visible even at night or in low-light conditions. Additionally, pylon signs are often double-sided so that they can be seen from both directions on a busy street.

Pylon signs are a versatile and effective way to get your message out, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Typically, pylon signs can be updated using an existing structure when a new business moves in or is looking to update its outdoor signs.

Wayfinding Signs

Wayfinding signs are invaluable tools for helping people navigate their way around unfamiliar places. By providing clear and concise directions, wayfinding signs can help people to avoid getting lost or disoriented.

These directional signs can be found in a variety of settings, including shopping malls, office buildings, hospitals, and airports. In many cases, these informational signs are designed to blend in with their surroundings, making them easy to miss if you’re not looking for them. However, their simple design can often be misleading, as their straightforward appearance can disguise the complex task of navigation they perform.

Wayfinding signs may not always be the most exciting things to look at, but they play a vital role in helping us get to where we want to go.

How to choose the right building signs for your business

When it comes to promoting your business, exterior signs are an important investment. Not only do they help customers find your location, but they also create a first impression of your brand. With so many different types of exterior signage available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your business. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing exterior signs:

First, consider the location of your sign

Will it be visible from the street? Is it in a high-traffic area? The placement of your sign will impact its effectiveness, so be sure to choose a location that will maximize visibility.

Second, think about the type of sign that will best match your brand identity

Are you looking for something traditional or modern? Eye-catching or understated? The right sign shouldreflect the personality of your company and help you stand out from the competition.

Third, don’t forget to consider your budget

Building signs come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to set a realistic budget before you start shopping. By taking the time to consider all of these factors, you can be sure to choose the right exterior sign for your business.

Finally, talk to a commercial sign company like Dave’s Signs

We can help you understand the different sign options available.

From sign planning, assistance with the city permitting process, sign design ideas, fabrication, and installation.

We can help you find an effective way to get your business noticed while staying in compliance with your building’s features and city requirements.

Exterior signage is an important part of any business, so it’s important to choose the right signs for your needs. By considering the location, types, and budget for your signs, you can be sure to find options that will help you attract customers and promote your brand.

Just as important is choosing the right commercial signage company with the experience and expertise to help you plan, design, and fabricate the ideal solution.

Whether you need a custom logo designed or already have a brand identity system in place. We can design and build your outdoor business signs – dimensional letters, logo signs, pole signs, lighted signs, channel letters, blade signs, or any type of custom sign – that’s what we do.

Conclusion: why you should invest in outdoor signs for your business

Outdoor signs are a great way to make your business stand out from the competition.

Exterior signs are one of the first things that customers and potential customers will see when they visit your business, so it’s important to make sure that your building sign is eye-catching and visible.

Outdoor signage helps improve the curb appeal of your business, making it more attractive to customers and passers-by. A well-designed building sign can help to communicate your brand message and increase your name recognition.

And because outdoor signage is durably built and weather resistant, it can provide many years of service with minimal maintenance.

If you’re looking for a way to improve the visibility of your business and reach more customers – a custom outdoor sign is a great investment.

Contact Dave’s Signs for Your Outdoor Building Signs

Dave’s Signs has been creating custom signs for businesses of all types for over 20+ years, and we can help you make the perfect signs for your needs. We work with you from start to finish, from design to installation, to make sure your signs are exactly what you want.

Contact Dave’s Signstoday to get started on your outdoor building signs.

Whether you are located in Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles Counties, or nationwide. Pick up the phone and call us at‭ ‭(805) 641-1387‬‬ or contact us online. We are always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

If you want your business to make a huge impact, why not use a monument sign? These popular signs really draw the eye and create landmarks for people passing by. Designing your signage can be challenging and rewarding, but the most important point is to make sure they promote your business identity effectively. Here are 4 monument sign trends for 2021 that are sure to convey yours.

#1:  Adding LED Illumination

A monument sign is a ground sign that typically has a low profile. They come illuminated or non-illuminated. If you really want to catch everyone’s attention, then consider an illuminated approach. Dave’s Signs uses ground lighting for a spotlight effect. However, we can also add internal lighting to the sign.  Beautiful LED lighting is a popular choice because it is so long-lasting and reduces your carbon footprint. If you are going for a modern look with a touch of classic, then LED lighting is your best bet.

#2:  Enhancing Your Existing Architecture

Elements of masonry and wood, or foam that replicates these materials, give ample opportunity to match your monument sign to your building’s architecture. Color and style of the sign can also compliment the landscape theme. A professional sign company uses these elements to streamline the design of your building, creating a  consistent aesthetic and feel. This will give your business an opportunity to build brand recognition by creating a consistent look and feel throughout.

#3: Using Foam Fabrication Replicas

Since the cost of masonry is sometimes a deal-breaker for some companies, using foam in its place can save money. Surprisingly, these replicas mimic the appearance and benefits of the real thing when they are professionally done. Foam monument signs with veneer imitators of stone and brick look just as classy and are plenty durable, too.

#4. Highly Visible Curved Designs

Curved signs are another popular sign trend and ones with professional designs are quite impressive. They can be fabricated from wood, brick, stucco, high-density urethane or from concrete. The curved dimension to these signs additionally makes them visible from many directions.

Dave’s Signs creates Beautiful Signs in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles Counties and Nationwide. Branding Your Business and giving it an identity is the only path to success – we offer a wide array of custom monument signage and graphics solutions that will highlight and promote yours. If you would like to know more, please get in touch with us at (805) 641-1387. Or contact us online for a quote.

Dave’s Signs is pleased to announce that Oakwood Communities picked them to create and install their Wagon Wheel town square landmark sign. We are excited and honored to be a part of the project due to its significance. The big monument is the crown of the development, a “Meet me at the big W,” so to speak.

What Oakwood Wanted in the New Landmark Signs

The goal was to make a landmark sign that would make a statement and enhance the surrounding community. In the case of the WW sign, Oakwood Communities wanted a large focal piece for their town square. There are two of these signs that will anchor the community. The second one is still in fabrication.

Why Did They Contact Dave’s Signs?

Dave’s Signs has been working a little over a year on Oakwood’s extensive sign program. The real estate developer contacted us for help in designing all of their property signs for their new master-planned community at Wagon Wheel Junction.

Our Role in the Bigger Picture

This project has been an ongoing one. Not only have we been working with the city and going through their approval process for the various sign programs. We’ve coordinated with all the contractors, and stonemasons as part of a team so everything stays on schedule and budget.

Structural Challenges of the Landmark Sign

Designs Made from Rough Client Sketches

Oakwood Communities provided a rough drawing of the logo, and we cleaned it up to what is now the sign. 

What’s Next?

The landmark WW sign is installed at Wagon Wheel Junction’s Fountain Square. We received feedback that Oakwood Communities is quite happy with the result, as are all the contractors and other vendors working on the construction site. Currently, we are working on the second Wagon Wheel landmark sign, and it’s in the middle of fabrication.  We are looking forward to the installation and all that comes next.

Stay tuned for more details!

If you are looking for an experienced sign company to design, fabricate, and install your landmark sign idea give us a call at ‭(805) 641-1387‬ or reach out to us online.