How to Obtain a Sign Permit in Toronto: A Business Owner's Guide
Startbucks fascia (wall) sign with channel letters on an extrusion alongside a two-face projecting sign
How to Obtain a Sign Permit in Toronto: A Business Owner's Guide
Are you a business or property owner in Toronto looking to install an exterior sign for your business? Navigating the process of obtaining a sign permit can be confusing, but we're here to help you break it down.
In the City of Toronto, under Chapter 694 of the Toronto Municipal Code, all permanent signs advertising a business on private property require an approved sign permit. Let's go over the steps you need to follow to get your sign up legally and efficiently.
Step 1: Understand the Sign Permit Requirements
The type of sign you want to install will dictate the specific requirements you need to meet. For instance:
Signs on the first storey of a building in a "Commercial Residential" zone cannot exceed 20% of the elevation area of that storey.
Additional restrictions apply to whether the sign can be illuminated, the hours of illumination, the types of materials allowed, and more.
Each property in Toronto is assigned a Sign District based on its use and the surrounding area, and each Sign District has its own regulations within the Sign By-law. For example, larger signs and electronic copy are permitted within Commercial Sign Districts but not in Residential or Open Space Sign Districts.
You can use the City's SignView mapping tool to look up your property's Sign District and view the applicable regulations. You can also use Allowd to read and search sign by-law requirements.
If you're unsure of the regulations applicable to your property, reach out to our team for guidance. We'll help you navigate the complex legal requirements enforced by the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario.
Step 2: Create Artwork and Design Your Sign
Your business sign is one of the most important aspects of your brand. Once you understand the regulations, it's time to create a design that represents your business and appeals to your customers.
Ensure that your artwork complies with the size, material, and illumination regulations mentioned earlier. The design must also take into account:
The overall aesthetics of your business.
How the sign will fit and function on your building's façade.
Step 3: Prepare the Necessary Drawings
The City of Toronto requires detailed sign drawings to accompany your permit application. These include:
Site Plan: Showing the location of the sign on your property.
Elevation View: Displaying the size and position of the sign relative to the building.
Cross-Section: Demonstrating how the sign will be anchored to a load-bearing structure, as required by the Ontario Building Code.
All drawings must be drawn on standardized sized sheets, drawn to scale, fully dimensioned, signed and dated. If the drawings were prepared by a qualified designer (as defined under the Ontario Building Code), they must include the designer's name, registration number, qualification identification number, signature, and stamp.
If you're not sure how to prepare these drawings, our consultants can assist you.
Step 4: Check for Additional Permits
Depending on your location and building, you may also need:
Heritage Permits (if the property is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act or within a Heritage Conservation District).
Metrolinx Corridor Development Permit (if your property is near a Metrolinx corridor).
Ministry of Transportation Permit (if within an MTO-controlled area).
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) Permit (if applicable).
Construction Permit from Transportation Services (if your sign encroaches on the public right of way).
Ensure you have all necessary permits before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Know the Fees
Sign permit fees are set by Chapter 441 of the Toronto Municipal Code and are based on the size and type of sign. Here's what you can expect:
| Sign Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Wall Signs | $37.71 / sq. m (min. $253.72) |
| Ground Signs | $37.71 / sq. m (min. $253.72) |
| Projecting Signs | $37.71 / sq. m (min. $253.72) |
| Window Signs | $37.71 / sq. m (min. $253.72) |
| Overhanging Structure Signs | $37.71 / sq. m (min. $253.72) |
| Roof Signs | $45.22 / sq. m |
| Topiary Signs | $334.53 per sign |
| Building Permit (included with sign permit) | $70.67 |
The minimum total fee for a sign permit is $334.53, which includes the building permit fee. For double-sided signs, include the area for both sides.
Other Fees to Be Aware Of:
Revision Permit: $334.53 (flat fee, required if attachment details change from what was approved)
Transfer of Ownership: $219.30
Additional Inspection / Review: $94.73
Encroachment Agreement: $400 to $2,000+ (if the sign extends into the public right of way), plus possible annual fees
Administrative Fee (No Permit Violation): $963.71 per sign face — this is added to your application if a sign has been installed without the required permit or variance approval
Sign Variance Fees (if your sign doesn't comply with the by-law):
First-Party Sign Variance: $971.16 per application
Third-Party Sign Variance: $2,039.44 per application
Signage Master Plan: $3,324.35 per application
Preliminary Project Review (PPR):
If you're unsure whether your proposal complies with the Sign By-law, submitting a PPR is a smart first step. The fee is $90.67 for the first 2 signs and $30.22 for each additional sign. The PPR will identify any required variances, non-compliance, or outstanding applicable laws.
Step 6: Submit Your Application
With your drawings and supporting documents ready, fill out the applicable building permit and sign permit application forms, available on the City of Toronto website. Submit your application via email to expressservices@toronto.ca.
If you are applying for three signs or less, payment is required after the application has been approved. Otherwise, payment would be required beforehand. The City accepts debit, credit card, or certified cheque (for amounts under $2,000). Credit card payments can also be made over the phone by calling 416-392-8000.
Step 7: Understand Processing Times
The standard review timeline for a sign permit is 3 business days for applications with 3 or less signs.
If the Examiner finds that variances are required or the proposal doesn't comply with the Sign By-law, a Notice will be sent via email and your application will be cancelled. You would need to re-apply for a sign permit once all deficiencies are remedied.
Properties requiring Heritage approval do not qualify for the Express Service timeline.
At Rouge Hill Consulting, our team boasts a 95% first-application approval rate, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
Step 8: Install Your Sign and Book Inspections
Once your permit is approved, forward it to a reputable manufacturer and installer. They will fabricate and install your sign according to the approved drawings.
After installation, one or more inspections will follow. Your Inspector will be listed on the Sign Permit, and you'll need to contact them to arrange:
A footings/foundation inspection (for ground signs)
A final inspection (for all signs, once installation is complete)
You can schedule, reschedule, or cancel inspections using the City's Inspection Request web application.
An Installer’s Report must be submitted in order for the City to be able to close your permit. You can learn more about Installer’s Reports here.
What About Window Signs?
Not every sign requires a permit. Window signs are permitted in all Sign Districts except Residential and Residential Apartment, and do not require a Sign Permit as long as they do not display copy electronically (such as LED signs), do not exceed 25% of the window area, only display first-party copy, and are not located above the second storey. If any of those conditions are not met, a Sign Variance approval is required first.
Penalties for Installing Without a Permit
Don't skip the permit. Installing a sign without the required approvals can result in a $305 fine, a charge to appear in Court, and/or the removal of the sign at the property owner's expense. On top of that, the $963.71 administrative fee per sign face will be added to any subsequent application.
Need a Sign or Sign Permit? Contact Us!
If you need assistance creating a sign permit package, preparing drawings, or navigating Toronto's sign regulations, Rouge Hill Consulting is here to help. Contact us today:
Phone: 437-833-7817
We'll ensure your business signage meets all legal requirements and reflects your brand beautifully.