Get a permanent sign permit

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:

  1. Check if you need a permit
  2. Find your sign zone
  3. Apply for a permit
  4. Apply for a variance to the Sign Bylaw
  5. Report a sign issue
  6. Contact us

1. Check if you need a permit

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:

  • signs inside a building
  • maintenance or re-facing that doesn’t change the size or location

If your sign is temporary or portable, apply for a temporary sign permit.

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

2. Find your sign zone

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:

  1. Open the map.
  2. Agree to the terms.
  3. Select Find Sign Bylaw on the top menu.
  4. Enter your address and select Search.
  5. Your sign zone appears in the results box.

Find your sign zone

3. Apply for a permanent sign permit

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:

  1. Check the permanent sign guide (PDF) for details on sign types, zones and design rules.
  2. Register or sign in to our online permit application.
  3. Fill in your sign information and upload your supporting documents.
  4. Pay by credit card - we don't accept debit, Visa Debit or Mastercard Debit online.

Apply for a permanent sign permit

Apply for a permanent sign permit in person at City Hall:

  1. Check the permanent sign guide (PDF) for details on sign types, zones and design rules.
  2. Download, print and fill out our Permanent Sign Application form (PDF).
  3. Bring your complete application to the Integrated Planning and Public Works counter on the second floor of City Hall.
  4. Pay by cash, debit, credit card or cheque payable to City of Waterloo.

Apply for a permanent sign permit by mail

  1. Check the permanent sign guide (PDF) for details on sign types, zones and design rules.
  2. Download, print and fill out our Permanent Sign Application form (PDF).
  3. Include a cheque payable to the City of Waterloo and send your complete application to:

City of Waterloo IPPW (2nd Floor)
100 Regina St. S.
PO Box 337, Station Waterloo
Waterloo, ON
N2J 4A8

Apply for a variance to the sign bylaw

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:

  1. Check the submission and meeting dates
  2. Use the online form to submit your application.
  3. Pay the $1,550 non-refundable fee at the service counter on the second floor of City Hall – pay by cash or cheque made payable to the City of Waterloo

The fee is non-refundable.

Apply for a variance

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.

Application submission date

Committee meeting date
December 22 2025 January 20 2026
January 26 2026 February 17 2026
February 23 2026 March 17 2026
March 23 2026 April 21 2026
April 27 2026 May 19 2026
May 25 2026 June 16 2026
June 22 2026 July 21 2026
July 27 2026 August 18 2026
August 24 2026 September 15 2026
September 21 2026 October 20 2026
November 23 2026 December 15 2026
December 21 2026 January 19 2027

Report a sign issue

The city enforces the Sign Bylaw through complaints and site inspections. Putting up a sign without a permit can result in:

  • removal at the owner’s expense
  • fines up to $50,000 for an individual
  • fines up to $100,000 for a corporation

Report an issue to municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca or call 519-747-8785.

Contact us

Contact us if you have questions or need help: