This will explain the City of Burnaby's sign approval process.

What is a Sign?

A sign is any structure or advertising device, visible from any street, that is used to attract the attention of the general public. Signs can be placed in a variety of locations such as an awning, canopy, face of a building, roof or window, or on their own as free standing structures.

When is Sign Approval Required?

Anyone who is interested in placing a sign on a property must make an application to and obtain approval from the Planning and Building Department. Building Permit approval is required for the placing of signs. This requirement applies to both permanent and temporary signs as well as to signs that are free standing or attached to a building.

The Burnaby Sign Bylaw establishes the specific regulations for the different types of signs that can be placed or erected on a property. The type and number of signs which can be approved for a site is dependent on the zoning category for the site. Free standing, facia, canopy, projecting and roof signs may be approved, however, animated, balcony, portable, billboard, flashing and revolving signs are not permitted.

In the case of shopping centres or development within a Comprehensive Development (CD) District, a Comprehensive Sign Plan is required. The Sign Bylaw addresses these special areas with a requirement for a Comprehensive Sign Application (CSA). If you are considering a CSA, please contact this department prior to making an application.

Sign Approval Process

The review of an application for a sign is based upon its compliance with the Sign Bylaw. Once the application is approved, Building and where applicable, Electrical Permits are issued. Through the sign approval process, the City can ensure that new signs are placed in a proper location and erected in a safe manner.

Sign Application

1. A completed sign application form is submitted to the Building Division. The application must be signed by the applicant. Make certain that the project address is correct.

2. The applicant must provide plans illustrating the following:

• A site plan (two sets) showing property lines, buildings, on-site sidewalks, parking areas, landscaping in the general area of the proposed sign, and the proposed location of the sign.
• A plan (two sets) showing all elevation details and the location of new signs and existing signs. Construction detail must also be shown, including detail of how the sign will be attached to the structure.
• In addition, for free standing signs, the applicant must provide two sets of plans showing the details of the base construction, dimensions, weight, and height of the sign. If the free standing sign is 10 feet or more in height, a Structural Engineer's stamp and signature on the plans and Letters of Assurance will be required.

3. For signs requiring electrical connection, an Electrical Permit Application form must be filled out as part of the application. This application must include the Registered Representative's name and number and the Burnaby Electrical Business Licence number. The signature on the Electrical Permit Application must have recognized signing authority for the contractor's company.

4. Two sign record cards must be completed for each sign. A drawing of the sign and lettering must be on the back of each card.

Samples of the required plans are attached for your information. Plans that are not complete with the above information will not be accepted.

Application Review and Approval

5. The application is reviewed to determine whether or not the proposed sign complies with the appropriate zoning and sign regulations. Once the review is completed, you will be notified. Additional information or revisions may be required.

6. When all requirements have been satisfied, a Building Permit and an Electrical Permit (if applicable) will be issued.

How Much Time Does the Process Take?

The amount of time to process a sign application is largely dependent upon the complexity of the application. In addition, the time frame is affected by how well the applicant responds to meeting the requirements as established by the Planning and Building Department.

For Further Information

This information is meant to act only as a general guide. Please consult the Local Government Act and its Regulations, the Municipal Zoning and Sign Bylaws, and other bylaws for definitive requirements and procedures. For specific information related to individual applications, contact:

Samples of Required Plans

Sample #1

Sample #2

Sample #3