Signage is important for every business and Storefront Signage more than any other sign is required to identify your business, draw in customers and advertise your business. Having a well designed and updated sign will give a positive impression of your business. However, before you install your Storefront sign there are some things you should know.
Do I need a permit for my Storefront sign?
Any time you install a sign on a building as a storefront sign or if you are installing it into the ground you need to first obtain a Sign and Building Permit. The application for the Sign and Building Permits can be completed on your own or your Sign Maker can complete them for you. It is important that you obtain the permit prior to installing the sign. This ensures the sign meets the requirements of the Ontario Building Code and complies with the Sign By-law. It keeps your customers and passersby safe.
You may want to install an outdoor Channel Letter Sign or LED Light box Sign or any other type of Storefront Sign to identify your business. A Storefront Sign that identifies a business or service that is located on the property requires a First Party Sign Permit. When applying for a First Party Sign Permit, you will need to include details of the type of Sign you are proposing (ie. Electronic, static) and lighting details about the illumination levels for the sign. This is something to consider if you are planning to have an illuminated sign.
Dimensioned drawings showing the sign proposal and location on the building as well as the proposed sign location as well as other signs on the building are some of the details required. If your drawings are prepared by a qualified designer/engineer it must include the designer’s name, registration number, qualification identification number, signature, and stamp/statement that the person has reviewed and taken responsibility for the design activities. Structural Information is required for most wall signs.
You may include photographs of the building with the new sign proposal, but this is not required.
At The Sign and Graphics Manufaktur, we know you don’t have the time to research and complete all the documents required to obtain the Sign Permits for your Storefront Sign, so why not leave this to our experts who can not only design, manufacture and install your sign but also obtain the necessary permits for you. Call us at 905-670-0797. Our experts are waiting to take your call.
Do Window Signs also need permits?
Most Window Signs if they are not an electronic sign and doesn’t exceed 25% of the window area may not require a Sign Permit. However, if they are located above the second storey would require a Sign Variance approved and a Sign Permit. There are many different signs and some require permits and others don’t. Let us help you figure out the requirements for your signage so you can be comfortable knowing you are following all the City By-Laws.
