Sign Permit

How to apply

The fastest way to get your Sign Permit is to apply online.

Step 1: Gather and complete the application documents

Permanent Signs

1. Fill out and sign (electronically) the Sign Permit Application Form. Save this form for uploading when you apply online.
   • If the person applying for the permit is not the owner of the property, please have an Agent Authorization Form signed by the owner(s). Scan and save the form in .PDF file format.
   • If the property owner is a corporation, you are required to include the Proof of Business Ownership (Notice of Articles).
2. A recent title search, dated within 30 days of the application. Staff will require copies of any applicable legal encumbrances on title.
3. Proof of Professional Liability Insurance, including the name and contact information of the sign manufacturer.
4. Scaled Drawings showing the location, dimensions (including Sign Copy and Sign Area), height, clearance, weight, materials, finishes, colours, size of lettering, copy and graphics, method of illumination, method of construction and details, and estimated cost (including installation) of proposed signage.
   • Dependent on the specifics of a proposal, Schedule B, Form B, and Structural Drawings may be requested by City staff. If requested, submit the documents as a digitally signed soft copy or as original wet sealed paper copies (x2).

Temporary Signs

1. Fill out and sign (electronically) the Sign Permit Application Form. Save this form for uploading when you apply online.
   • If the person applying for the permit is not the owner of the property, please have an Agent Authorization Form signed by the owner(s). Scan and save the form in .PDF file format.
2. Sketches / Photographs of Proposed Signage, including scaled dimensions if possible.
3. Location Plan of Proposed Signage should identify the location of the sign in relation to the building façade or property lines. It should also identify building access points, and if applicable, dimensions of the unimpeded sidewalk area.

Step 2: Apply online

When you have your documents ready, click here to begin the online application. Watch this step-by-step video guide on using our new Application Portal.

There is a non-refundable application fee of $75.00. City staff cannot begin a review of your application until these fees are paid. Additional fees may be requested following a review of your application. City staff will contact you if additional payment is required. For a complete list of fees, see Schedule A of the City's Fees and Charges Bylaw.

Note: If you are applying for both Temporary Signs and Permanent Signs, you will need to submit separate applications for each.

To apply in person, visit the Planning Department at City Hall with all the required paper documents.

Step 3: Application review

When the application is received, City staff will perform a preliminary review of the application form and supporting documents to ensure completion. If any required items are incomplete or missing, the applicant will receive an email notifying them of the outstanding item(s) to address before the City can proceed further with a formal application and a comprehensive review. Additional fees may be requested following a review of your application. City staff will contact you if additional payment is required.

You can check the status of your application at any time through the MyWhiteRock online portal.

Step 4: Issuance

When the application is formally accepted and the comprehensive review is completed, the applicant will be sent an email from City staff notifying them that their sign permit has been issued. You will be able to access and download the issued permit through the Application Portal. Please note that the City will only be issuing sign permits electronically.

Questions related to the application process can be sent to Planning and Development Services by emailing planning@whiterockcity.ca, or by phone at 604-541-2136.