Signage

The city’s sign bylaw regulates if signs are permitted and if so, the size, location and maintenance of signs across the city. Most sign types require a permit.

On this page

1. Where posters are permitted
2. Erecting temporary signs
3. Apply for a permit for a permanent sign
4. Apply for a variance to the sign bylaw
5. Penalties and enforcement of sign use rules

Where posters are permitted

There are several utility poles along King Street in uptown Waterloo fitted with special sleeves for posters. Any non-offensive material can be posted with glue or tape. Material posted elsewhere is not permitted and will be removed.

Erecting temporary signs

Portable or temporary signs require a permit to display on public or private property. Apply in-person at the municipal enforcement counter at Waterloo City Centre (city hall). The cost is $60.12/permit (cash, cheque, money order, debit and credit accepted).

Apply for a permit for a permanent sign

Permanent signs require a permit. The cost is $265/sign. Various payment methods are accepted based on how you apply. For further assistance, refer to the permanent sign guide (PDF).

Apply for a variance to the sign bylaw

Applications that require amendments to the sign bylaw go through the Sign Variance Committee. All variance applications are reviewed to ensure they meet the intent of the Sign Bylaw and comply with the zoning bylaw. They also must comply with the Ontario Building Code.

1. Download and complete a Sign Variance Committee Application (PDF).
2. Check the submission and meeting dates below.
3. Submit your application along with the $1,380 non-refundable fee (cash or cheque made payable to the City of Waterloo) at the IPPW counter on the second floor of city hall.

If you have questions about whether your sign requires a variance, contact us at 519-747-8752, TTY (for deaf) 1-866-786-3941 or zoning@waterloo.ca 

Note that the committee can grant or refuse any application for a variance and may impose conditions. Your application fee will not be refunded. You can appeal committee decisions to city council within 21 days.

Penalties and enforcement of sign use rules

The Sign Bylaw is enforced often through complaints and site inspections. Putting up a sign without a permit can result in it being removed at the owner’s expense and fines to a maximum of $50,000 for a person and $100,000 for a corporation.

If you believe someone is breaking the sign bylaw and would like to file a complaint, contact us during business hours at 519-747-8785 or municipalenforcement@waterloo.ca.