Temporary signs and permits

Apply for a permit before putting up a temporary sign. Posters and election signs do not need a permit but must follow city rules.

On this page:

1. Check if you need a permit
2. Apply in person
3. Temporary sign rules
4. Posters and election signs
5. Report a sign issue
6. Contact us

Check if you need a permit

You need a permit if you want to put up a portable or banner sign on public or private property.

You don’t need a permit for:

• election signs that meet city rules
• sandwich boards that meet city rules
• posters that are put up in the right place
• real estate or leasing signs

For long-term or fixed signs, apply for a permanent sign permit.

If you’re not sure, email portablesigns@waterloo.ca.

Apply for a temporary sign permit

The permit fee is $64.40 per sign.

How to apply:

• in person at the Municipal Enforcement counter, first floor, City Hall
• pay by cash, debit, credit, cheque or money order payable to the City of Waterloo
• open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

You’ll get your permit during your visit.

Temporary sign rules

Your sign must meet these basic rules:

• only one sign per business
• maximum size is 60 × 90 cm
• place it directly in front of your business
• keep sidewalks and rights of way clear
• can’t have built-in or attached lighting

Display limits:

• each permit lasts 30 days
• each permit covers one location
• you can display a temporary sign for a total of 180 days per year (6 permit maximum)

Check the Sign Bylaw for rules on where signs can go, how big they can be, and how they must be maintained.

Posters and election signs

Posters or election signs do not need a permit, but they must follow city rules.

Posters

• only put posters on utility poles with poster sleeves in uptown Waterloo
• we will remove posters in any other location

Election signs

• cannot have lighting
• must be smaller than 1.5 m² per side
• must be removed within 72 hours after the election ends
• do not place signs on public property
• do not place signs where they block drivers or pedestrians

If you see any posters or election signs breaking the rules, report it to municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca

Report a sign issue

Contact us if you find:

• posters or election signs that are breaking the rules
• a temporary sign without a permit
• a sign placed where signs are not allowed