How to apply for brown tourist signs
This guidance outlines the process for tourism businesses in East Lothian requesting brown visitor signs. It outlines the eligibility criteria, application steps, and responsibilities of relevant parties. This process aligns with VisitScotland's updated national approach, ensuring that businesses adhere to the required standards and conditions. The new process takes effect from 1 April 2025 and supersedes previous guidance.
Eligibility Criteria
A business must qualify as a tourist destination as defined by The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016. To be eligible, the business must:
- Attract or be used by visitors to an area.
- Be open to the public without prior booking during normal opening hours.
- Be recognised by VisitScotland as a tourist destination.
- Have a listing on the Visit East Lothian destination website - www.visiteastlothian.org
Purpose of Signs
- Brown visitor signs are designed to provide clear and consistent directions for people already aware of a business or attraction.
- They are designed to direct drivers to their destination during the final stages of their journey.
- They are not a substitute for effective marketing. Businesses should ensure their website, maps and other promotional materials provide clear location details.
Application Process
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Businesses should review the eligibility criteria to determine if they qualify for a brown tourist sign. A full list of eligible businesses and facilities is available at VisitScotland Brown Tourist Signs
Step 2: Request a Letter of Accreditation
Before applying, eligible businesses must obtain an official accreditation letter from VisitScotland. VisitScotland is responsible for confirming eligibility but does not approve signage installation. To request accreditation, email signposting@visitscotland.com
Step 3: Applying for Signs
Once accredited, businesses can submit a request to apply for signs to visit@eastlothian.gov.uk along with a copy of the official accreditation letter.
- East Lothian Council will assess requests based on factors including location (this will include within town settlements and distance to A & B Class roads), visibility, road safety and existing signage.
- Businesses that operate within an existing accredited tourism destination that already has brown signs, will not be eligible.
- If signage is required on trunk roads or motorways, businesses need to liaise with Transport Scotland or its operating companies.
Step 4: Approval
If your application is successful, you should note the following:
Design of Signs
- Brown signs will only show the name of the business and the VisitScotland thistle logo, except for properties in the care of Historic Environment Scotland, and The National Trust for Scotland, where an appropriate symbol will be included.
- The size, placement and design must comply with East Lothian Council and Transport Scotland regulations.
Cost of Signs
- All costs associated with the design, production and installation of brown signs will be the responsibility of the business.
- Once a business has been approved for signs, East Lothian Council will provide the business with designs and costings.
- When the business has approved the design i.e. checked that the business name is correct, and agrees to pay the costings, East Lothian Council will send an invoice before ordering signs.
Maintenance of Signs
- Once manufactured and erected, East Lothian Council's, Infrastructure & Road Services department will adopt the signs and maintain them.
- If a business ceases operation, East Lothian Council's, Infrastructure & Road Services department will arrange for the removal of signage.
- Any requests for updates or alterations to existing signage or for additional signage, must be submitted to East Lothian Council for approval through the same process as applying for a sign for the first time. Businesses will be responsible for all costs associated with updates or alterations.
If your application is unsuccessful East Lothian Council will inform you and provide you with the reasons for refusal.
East Lothian Council's decision is final and there is no right of appeal.
If you have any queries, please contact visit@eastlothian.gov.uk