Abstract: A compact, and low maintenance back lit illuminated sign (10), especially such a back lit sign suitable for use on a vehicle. The shallow back lit illuminated sign (10) comprises a housing (12), a light source (30) suitable for supplying light to a light fiber (20), and at least one side-light emitting fiber (20). The housing (12) has a sign face (14) and an interior surface (16, 18) that includes a back surface (19). The sign face (14) has an illuminated area that diffusely transmits light. The back surface (19) is located at a depth from the sign face (14). One or more side-light emitting fibers (20) are connected so as to receive light from the light source (30) and are mounted within the housing (12) so as to limit the amount of emitted light, from the fiber(s) (20), that travels directly to the sign face (14).