9 things to know about signs

1. Signs to be erected shall comply with the City of Guelph’s Sign By-law. A permit application, drawings and fee may be required prior to the installation of a sign.

2. Posters are only permitted on the downtown poster board and on approved poster sleeves, which are located on utility poles in front of secondary schools and in the downtown core. Posters on downtown poster board are to be approved by Downtown Guelph Business Association and posters on utility poles are to be approved by ServiceGuelph at 1 Carden Street prior to posting.

1. Portable Signs (such as an A-frame/sandwich board) require a permit. If the sign is to be placed on the boulevard (City property)please be aware there may be additional regulations.

2. Mobile Signs require issuance of a permit prior to installation.

3. Building Signs and Free Standing Signs (pylon signs) require permits.

4. Non-profit organizations are permitted to erect temporary Banner Signs on the Norfolk Street Pedestrian Overpass subject to ServiceGuelph approval. Please visit ServiceGuelph located at City Hall, 1 Carden Street to apply for the Banner.

5. Flashing/revolving signs, inflatable signs, signs for home-based businesses, unauthorized signs on utility poles, signs which obstruct the vision of drivers, and signs erected without the required permit do not comply with the regulations of the by-law.

6. Home Owners: If you put up a sign for your garage sale, lawn sale, etc. please take it down immediately after the event.

7. For information regarding Street Signs and Traffic Directional Signs, please contact Operations at (519) 837-5604.

If you have any questions about the information provided, or any other building related matters, please contact the Zoning Services at 519-837-5615, Fax 519-822-4632 or E-mail zoning@guelph.ca. 




Application for a permanent sign

Application for a Mobile Sign permit

Application and Instructions for Norfolk Banner

Sign By-law Variance Application

Sign By-law - Schedule of Fees