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A Guide to Sign Permits
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The City requires sign permits for any
sign not exempt in the Sign Bylaw. This is to ensure that all signs are
safely constructed and comply with the Bylaw’s standards.
When you need a Sign Permit
If you are constructing or erecting a new sign or
altering an existing sign, a sign permit is required. However, there are
a few exceptions. If you are in a development permit area you will need
a development permit instead. (See Development Permit Brochure).
When you don’t need a
Sign Permit
The more common signs that are exempt include: window
signs, home occupation signs, political campaign signs, memorial
plaques, cornerstones, no trespassing, dumping or shooting signs, flags,
temporary real estate signs, temporary construction signs, temporary
fundraising signs, farm produce signs, and on-site direction signs. It
is best to ask for assistance or refer to the Bylaw, as some of these
signs have restrictions.
What you need for an
application
- A complete
application form, signed by the property owner
- A sketch plan
of your sign to include:
- Name and
address of the sign owner, property owner, sign maker and
installer,
- Graphics,
- Colour
scheme,
- Dimensions,
- Weight , and
- Materials of
the sign.
- A site plan
showing the sign in relation to existing permitted signs, property
lines, and the face of the building.
- A photo of the
building face where the sign is to be attached (if applicable),
- Electrical
wiring components
- Engineered
drawings (when required by the Building Inspector)
- A $25 fee ($10
for portable signs) paid.
- If you are in
a Development Permit area, a development permit is required (See
Development Permit Brochure).
What happens to your
application
If you have a complete application, Staff will be able to process your
application generally within 2-4 working days.
What signs aren’t allowed
The following signs are not permitted: out-of-town business signs,
abandoned signs, flashing signs, revolving signs, roof signs, penthouse
signs, third party signs, signs attached to vehicles or trailers, any
sign that is obscene, pornographic or untruthful, or any sign
obstructing a doorway, window, fire escape or traffic sign.
Generally billboards, off-site signs,
portable signs including sandwich boards, and signs on balloons are not
permitted. However, there are specific instances where these signs can
be permitted.
What Rules to Follow
The Sign Bylaw regulates the size, copy area, minimum height, maximum
height, and location of signs. Each type of sign has different
specifications for what is allowed in addition to the requirements set
for your particular Zoning designation.
It is important to note that some sign
types are restricted to specific zones or have different requirements
for each zone in which it is allowed. There are also construction
standards which will need to be met.
When an existing sign doesn’t
comply
If the sign was legally built before the Sign Bylaw was in place, then
you can keep it as long as it is in safe condition. Once you move,
alter, reconstruct or rebuild your sign, it will need to be built to the
current Sign Bylaw standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How
long will it take to process my application?
We can generally process your application within 2-4 working days. The
Building Inspector needs to approve all sign permits.
How
long is this permit valid for?
The permit is valid as long as it is built to what was approved in the
permit and is maintained in a safe condition. You need to complete
construction within 90 days of the City issuing your permit for it to
remain valid.
Why do I need the property owner to sign
my application?
If you are renting or do not own the property where you are siting a
sign, it is the owner’s right to know what is done on the property.
Where can I look at the Sign Bylaw?
You can look at the sign Bylaw online at the City’s website (Sign Bylaw
# 1864) or in the Planning Department.
This publication is
intended to provide general information only. It is not intended to
be used as an official interpretation of the various codes and
regulations in effect.
Updated January 2007 |
