What the sign rules cover
The City of Wrenford manages outdoor displays through the Sign By-law 2020-088. This by-law sets clear rules for temporary signs, community notices, commercial displays, and election signage. The goal is to keep streets safe, make sure drivers and pedestrians can see traffic signals, and protect the look of our neighbourhoods.
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Where you can place a temporary sign
If you are putting up a temporary sign for a garage sale, local event, or community group, you must follow these placement rules. A sign is not legally placed if it:
- Is closer than 3 metres to a curb or the edge of a road.
- Is within 15 metres of any intersection, crosswalk, or traffic light pole.
- Is placed on or within 2 metres of a fire hydrant, transit shelter, or bus stop sign.
- Sits on a traffic island, centre median, or grass boulevard.
- Blocks a view of a stop sign, yield sign, or any other traffic control device.
- Uses string, rope, or guide wires for support.
Signs must not be attached to street light poles, bridges, or decorative lamp posts. They also cannot stay in place longer than 14 days before an event or 24 hours after the event ends, whichever is shorter. Permanent signs must go through the development permit process.
Size and appearance limits
Standard temporary signs cannot be larger than 0.6 square metres. Signs must stay flat and upright, reaching no higher than 0.9 metres from the ground. They cannot be lit up, inflatable, or designed to look like official traffic signs. Damaged, torn, or poorly maintained signs are not allowed and will be removed.
School Safe Zones
We keep our students safe by limiting distracting or controversial messaging near schools. Within 150 metres of a school boundary, advocacy signs larger than 9 by 13 centimetres cannot be displayed on school days between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Schools can still allow these signs on their own property with permission. Violating this rule carries a fine.
Signs in parks and public spaces
You cannot place any commercial or community signs in Wrenford's parks without prior written approval. Parks are managed for recreation and nature, and extra signage can clutter pathways and damage green spaces. If you need to advertise an event in a park, contact the Recreation & Culture team to check availability.
Business and private property signs
If you own a business or want to install a permanent sign on your property, you must apply for a sign permit. Permits ensure your sign matches the zoning of your area and meets safety standards. You must have the property owner's written consent before putting a sign up. Contact the Planning & Development team to start your application.
Election signs
Election signs follow special rules during municipal elections. Candidates and supporters may keep signs up for the full election period, but they must be taken down within 72 hours after the polls close. Signs on City property must be removed immediately after the election. For full details on sizes, spacing, and permitted locations, visit the election sign bylaws page.
Report an illegal sign
If you see a sign that breaks these rules, please let us know. By-law officers can remove unsafe or improperly placed signs. Call 311 from inside the city or report it online through the 311 portal. Please do not remove signs yourself, as this can cause injury or damage to municipal property.