Best Parking Signs & Permits in the UK: Where to Buy, What to Know, and How to Save

Why the right parking sign matters

Have you ever driven into a car park and squinted at a faded sign wondering if you're allowed to stop? Clear parking signage can prevent arguments, fines, and even towing — whether you're managing a small business forecourt or organising permits for a residential block. The right sign does more than point a finger; it communicates authority, reduces disputes, and keeps traffic moving. In the UK market there are plenty of suppliers, from trade-focused outlets to specialist sign makers, so picking the right store and product matters.

Top UK stores to buy parking signs and permits

Not every retailer is built the same. Some specialise in heavy-duty, reflective signs suited for highways, while others focus on custom-printed permit cards and temporary signage. Below are reputable UK options that cover the spectrum — national hardware chains, industrial suppliers, marketplaces, and specialist sign companies.

Screwfix

Screwfix is a go-to for tradespeople and facilities teams who need standard parking signs quickly. They stock aluminium and rigid plastic signs, mounting posts, and basic permit accessories. If you need a common size like 12" x 18" or 24" x 18" in a hurry, Screwfix often has fast availability and trade pricing.

RS Components

RS Components targets industrial buyers, so expect tough, compliant options with high-grade materials and reflectivity. Their range is good for commercial estates and industrial sites where durability and standard specifications matter. RS is also useful when you want bulk orders measured in dozens rather than singles.

Amazon UK

For variety and quick reviews, Amazon UK is hard to beat. You'll find everything from off-the-shelf “Permit Holders Only” signs to bespoke vinyl options and magnetic temporary signs. The platform’s wide seller base means price ranges are broad, but buyer reviews help separate the bargains from the poor-quality items.

eBay UK

eBay is a great place to find both new and surplus signs — especially handy if you’re hunting for a rare format or bulk lots at auction prices. If you like the thrill of a bargain and don’t mind vetting sellers, eBay can save you significant cash on larger purchases.

Signs.co.uk

Signs.co.uk specialises in bespoke signage and is ideal if you need printed permits, company-branded parking signs, or laminates with your logo. Custom sizes like 10" x 8" permit stickers or bespoke aluminium plates are handled easily, and you can usually proof the design before production.

SafetySigns.co.uk (or similar specialist safety sign retailers)

Specialist safety sign retailers focus on compliance and clarity. They stock high-visibility reflective signs, statutory wording, and the correct symbols for disabled bays and loading restrictions. If you need signs that meet specific regulatory guidance or want retroreflective grades for night visibility, look to these specialist suppliers.

Signs Express

Signs Express operates through local branches, giving the advantages of a national network with a local service. They offer on-site surveys, installation, and bespoke permits. This is excellent if you want a hands-off solution where the sign company handles everything from design to fitment.

The Sign Shed

The Sign Shed often provides affordable bespoke signs for small businesses and community groups. They’re useful for creative designs and short-run orders such as visitor permit cards or temporary event parking signage — and they’ll usually work with coroplast (fluted plastic) for economical, short-term use.

What types of parking signs you'll find

Parking signage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different situations call for different materials, wording, and mounting methods. Knowing the common types will help you choose the right product for safety and clarity.

Permit holder only signs

These are the backbone of residential and business permit schemes. Typically displayed on posts or walls, they state “Permit Holders Only” and often include details about times or validators. Available in rigid aluminium or weatherproof plastic, they can be printed with local authority logos or unique numbering systems for permits.

Disabled bay signs

Disabled parking signs use the International Symbol of Access and often reference the Blue Badge scheme. They need to be highly visible and, in some contexts, use reflective materials so they’re clear at night. Many suppliers offer pre-printed options sized around 12" x 18".

No Parking / No Waiting signs

These communicate clear prohibitions and are common in loading zones, commercial yards, and private roads. Reflective grades are available for signs that must be seen in low light. Often used with enforcement wording like “Vehicles will be clamped or removed.”

Loading bay and timed restrictions

Loading bay signs specify limited time allowances like “30 minutes loading only” and help manage logistic areas. They’re particularly useful for retail deliveries and estate management where turnover must be controlled.

Permit cards, lanyards and windscreen permits

Not all parking controls rely on fixed signage. Many businesses use hang-tags, printed permits for windscreens, or flat permit cards. These are commonly ordered in standard card sizes like 3.5" x 2" or custom shapes, and can be numbered or printed with QR codes for tracking.

Materials, sizes and durability — what to choose

Material selection affects both cost and lifespan. Think about exposure, vandalism risk, and visual prominence when choosing materials and sizes. Here’s a quick guide to common options.

Aluminium signs

Aluminium is a top choice for long-life signs. It resists rust, holds up to wind and rain, and is often available with reflective sheeting for nighttime visibility. Typical sizes range from 12" x 8" small notices to 36" x 24" larger estate signs.

Rigid plastic and coroplast

For budget or temporary signage, coroplast (fluted plastic) and PVC boards are practical. They’re lightweight and inexpensive but less durable than metal. Expect lifespans measured in months to a few years depending on exposure.

Vinyl stickers and decals

Vinyl is perfect for permit stickers, window decals, and vehicle door graphics. High-quality outdoor vinyl with laminate can last several years and withstand cleaning. Use vinyl for tamper-evident permits or space-saving solutions stuck to windscreens.

Reflective grades and thickness

Reflectivity matters for signs seen at night. Grades like Class 1 or Class 2 retroreflective sheeting increase visibility. Thickness also contributes to durability — a 0.06" aluminium plate out-performs thinner alternatives in wind-prone locations.

Custom signs and permits: design essentials

Want a sign that looks professional and is instantly understood? Design matters. A great sign combines the right wording, legible fonts, and clear pictograms to communicate in seconds.

Choosing fonts, contrast and iconography

Use bold, sans-serif fonts and high contrast — dark text on a light background or white text on a dark background. Standard pictograms (wheelchair symbol, tow truck icon) are widely recognised and speed comprehension. Keep important text readable from the typical viewing distance — for example, larger bays might need letters 3" high or more.

Colours and legal cues

Colour conventions help: blue for disabled bays, red for prohibitions, and green or brown for private visitor spaces. While private land doesn’t always require official colour codes, following familiar conventions reduces confusion and improves compliance.

Legal and accessibility considerations in the UK

Are private landowners allowed to install their own parking signs? Generally yes — but there are rules and best practices. It’s helpful to know where legal advice may be needed and when common-sense standards apply.

Blue Badge and accessibility guidance

Disabled parking signage should make allowances for Blue Badge holders and follow accessibility best practice so bays are wide enough and located conveniently near entrances. While local authorities manage public on-street bays, private car parks should still follow guidance to avoid discrimination and provide reasonable access.

Private land enforcement and wording

If you plan to enforce parking on private land, clear signage is essential to notify drivers of rules and consequences. Use simple wording like “Private Parking — Permit Holders Only” and specify enforcement measures. If enforcement involves clamping or removal, the signage must be unambiguous and visible from the entrance.

Buying in bulk and saving money

Need 50 signs for an estate or 200 permit cards for a university campus? Buying smart saves money. Bulk orders typically qualify for volume discounts, and trade accounts can bring ongoing savings if you order regularly.

Trade accounts, print runs and lead times

Ask suppliers about trade pricing and lead times. Industrial suppliers like RS Components and specialist printers like Signs.co.uk often offer tiered pricing when you order dozens or hundreds. Even a small per-item discount can add up when quantities exceed 100 units.

Negotiating for extras

When placing a big order, request extras like numbered backup permits, spare post brackets, or complimentary proofs. Many sign-makers will offer finishing touches (pre-drilled holes, rounded corners) at little extra cost if you negotiate up front.

Installation, mounting and maintenance tips

Buying the sign is only half the job — proper installation and regular upkeep keep your message legible and effective for years.

Mounting options

Signs can be wall-mounted, pole-mounted, or fixed to railings. For poles, common hardware includes U-bolts for standard round posts and banding for square posts. If you’re mounting signs at height, plan for secure fixings and consider anti-theft screws in high-vandal areas.

Cleaning and upkeep

Clean aluminium and vinyl signs with mild detergent and a soft cloth to avoid scratching. For reflective sheeting, avoid abrasive cleaners. Inspect signs seasonally — if the sign leans more than a few degrees or the fixings show rust, replace or repair promptly to maintain a professional appearance.

How to compare price vs quality

Cheap signs can be tempting, but they may cost more over time if you replace them frequently. Use a simple checklist to weigh cost against longevity and function.

Checklist for value

Compare the material (aluminium vs PVC), reflectivity grade, warranty length, and whether the supplier offers proofs or mock-ups. Read reviews for consistency and look for photos of installed signs — that tells you how they perform in the real world.

Final tips for smart purchases

Start by defining the purpose: temporary or permanent, indoor or outdoor, branded or generic. Measure the viewing distance so your text size is readable — for instance, a 4" letter height is typically visible for about 10 to 15 feet. Order a sample if you can, and keep a spare sign or two in storage for fast replacements.

Conclusion

Buying parking signs and permits in the UK is straightforward if you know where to look and what to ask for. National chains like Screwfix and RS Components are great for standard, durable signs; marketplaces like Amazon and eBay offer variety and speed; and specialist printers such as Signs.co.uk and Signs Express handle bespoke needs and installations. Think about material, readability, and compliance as you choose, and don’t forget to factor in bulk discounts and proper mounting to get the best value. With the right signs in place, you’ll reduce confusion, improve accessibility, and keep your site running smoothly.