Monument Signs

Monument Signs and LED Displays

Monument signs are freestanding signs that sit on a solid base close to the ground. They are designed to be permanent, architectural, and visually integrated with the property — often made of stone, brick, stucco, or metal.

When paired with an LED display, monument signs deliver both curb appeal and dynamic messaging power. They are popular with schools, churches, businesses, and communities that want a professional presence without the towering look of a pole sign.

Typical Height of Monument Signs

Most monument signs are designed to be 5–8 feet tall, placing them near eye level for pedestrians and drivers on local streets. This makes them ideal for entrances, community gateways, or businesses along slower-traffic roads.

However, some monuments are built taller:

  • Medium-Height Monuments (8–12 ft): Used when extra visibility is needed at busy intersections.

  • Tall Monuments (12–20 ft): Allowed in some zoning areas if the sign maintains a solid architectural base. These taller monuments resemble pylons in height but are still classified as monuments because of their ground-connected design.

How Monuments Differ from Pole (Pylon) Signs

  • Monuments:

    • Solid base that connects fully to the ground

    • Shorter, architectural, blends into landscaping

    • Usually 5–8 feet, but can be taller if designed with a solid base

  • Pylons (Poles):

    • Elevated on one or more exposed steel poles

    • Much taller (20–100+ feet) for highway or long-distance visibility

    • Designed primarily for maximum height, not architectural integration

The key difference is design, not just height. A monument is defined by its solid base, while a pylon is defined by its exposed pole structure.

Types of Monument Signs with LED

  1. Standard Monuments with LED Insert – Traditional base with an LED display built into the face.

  2. Combination Monuments (Static + LED) – A permanent ID panel with a dynamic LED message center below.

  3. Digital-Only Monuments – Entire face is an LED display for a modern look (zoning dependent).

  4. Architectural Custom Monuments – Designed to match the property or building for a high-end finish.

Key Considerations

  • Zoning: Local codes often set height and size limits. Monuments are usually easier to get approved than tall pylons.

  • Materials: Choose brick, stone, stucco, or metal to complement your building.

  • Visibility: Best for slower roads, entrances, or community-focused spaces.

  • Maintenance: Ensure the LED cabinet is serviceable without dismantling the monument base.

The Bottom Line

Monument signs provide a professional, permanent impression while giving you the flexibility of LED content. While typically lower to the ground, they can be built taller in some cases — as long as the structure uses a solid base.

If your property values aesthetics, curb appeal, and zoning compliance, a monument LED sign may be the perfect choice. If your priority is maximum height and long-distance visibility, a pylon sign is the better fit.