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Installing a Sign

A permit and approval is required for all signage in the City. In addition to a completed application the following information is required to erect a sign for a business:

Fixed Signage

  • A drawing of the sign indicating the size and any features.
  • A drawing outlining the intended location of the sign if it is being placed on a building.
  • A survey of the property indicating sign location if it's a free-standing type.
  • An estimation of the cost of the sign.
  • Whether the sign is illuminated or non-illuminated (a separate Electrical Permit is required if illuminated).
  • All signs located in the Heritage Area must comply with the Heritage Area Sign By-Law.
  • For ground or pylon signs in addition to a location plan (preferably on a survey), we also require drawings of the structure, connections and foundation which are to be stamped and signed by a Professional Engineer. (Very small signs may be exempted from this requirement.)

Once submitted please allow five to 10 working days for the application to be processed for a permit. (Referral to the Department of Engineering's Traffic Division for sight distance analysis may be required if the sign is close to a street or driveway.)

Please refer to the Schedule of Rates page for information on permit costs.
 

Mobile Signs
(Only licensed companies can distribute mobile signs in the City of St. John’s. For information on Mobile Sign Companies/Distributors annual licensing click here.

Movable, temporary signage boards, which are not permanently attached to a structure or the ground, are classed as 'mobile signs'.

In addition to a completed building application the following information is required prior to approval of the location of the mobile sign:

  • Verification that the mobile sign meets approved Certified Engineer’s specifications and City’s specifications.
  • A survey of the property.

Once submitted please allow five to 10 working days for the application to be processed for a permit. (Referral to the Department of Engineering's Traffic Division for sight distance analysis may be required to ensure the location of the sign does not obstruct the view of vehicular traffic when entering or exiting the lot.)

Advertising or messages on mobile signs must be directly related to the site on which the sign is located - no offsite advertising is permitted.

Please refer to the Schedule of Rates page for information on permit costs.

 

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