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Apply for a permit before installing a permanent business sign such as a storefront, wall or freestanding sign.
Signs must follow the Sign Bylaw, or you can apply for a variance.
On this page:
You need a permit to install or replace a permanent business sign such as a storefront, wall, canopy or freestanding sign.
You don’t need a permit for:
If your sign is temporary or portable, apply for a temporary sign permit.
If you’re not sure, email zoning@waterloo.ca.
Sign rules depend on where your property is. Your property is in a specific sign zone.
To find your zone, use the sign bylaw or the city's interactive map (works best on a desktop).
How to use the map:
Apply online, in person or by mail.
Each permit costs $300 per sign, which includes a $225 non-refundable review fee.
Before you apply, contact us if you’re not sure what type of sign you have or what’s allowed on your property.
Apply for a permanent sign permit online:
Apply for a permanent sign permit in person at City Hall:
Apply for a permanent sign permit by mail
City of Waterloo IPPW (2nd Floor)
100 Regina St. S.
PO Box 337, Station Waterloo
Waterloo, ON
N2J 4A8
If your sign does not meet the Sign Bylaw, you can apply for a variance.
The Sign Variance Committee reviews each application to confirm the proposed sign:
They may approve, refuse or add conditions.
How to apply:
The fee is non-refundable.
If your variance is approved, you will still need to apply for a sign permit.
If your application is refused, you can appeal the decision to City Council within 21 days.
Variance submission and meeting dates
|
Application submission date |
Committee meeting date |
|---|---|
|
December 16, 2024 |
January 21, 2025 |
|
January 27, 2025 |
February 18, 2025 |
|
February 24, 2025 |
March 18, 2025 |
|
March 24, 2025 |
April 15, 2025 |
|
April 21, 2025 |
May 20, 2025 |
|
May 26, 2025 |
June 17, 2025 |
|
June 23rd, 2025 |
July 15, 2025 |
|
July 21, 2025 |
August 19, 2025 |
|
August 25, 2025 |
Sept 16, 2025 |
|
September 22, 2025 |
Oct 21, 2025 |
|
October 27, 2025 |
November 18, 2025 |
|
November 24, 2025 |
Dec 16, 2025 |
The city enforces the Sign Bylaw through complaints and site inspections. Putting up a sign without a permit can result in:
Report an issue to municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca or call 519-747-8785.
Contact us if you have questions or need help:
