About the sign framework
The City of Wrenford uses two main by-laws to manage signs across the city: the Sign By-law 2020-088 and the Signage By-law 2022-072. Together, they keep our streets safe, reduce visual clutter, and help local businesses reach customers. These rules cover signs on private property, signs on the road right-of-way, temporary community signs, and community billboards.
How the by-laws are structured
The framework is divided into clear sections so you can find the rules that apply to your situation:
- Interpretation and definitions: Explains key terms and the guiding principles behind the rules.
- Application and permits: Covers who needs a permit, how to apply, and the City's review process.
- Owner responsibilities: Outlines your duty to maintain signs safely and remove them when required.
- General regulations: Sets size, height, lighting, and placement limits for all sign types.
- Exemptions: Lists signs that do not need a permit, as long as they meet safety standards.
- Sign districts: Tailors rules to different neighbourhoods and commercial areas.
Sign districts
Wrenford divides the city into sign districts so that rules match the character of each area. The main districts include:
- Residential Districts: Focus on keeping neighbourhoods quiet and clutter-free. Small yard signs and address plaques are allowed, but large commercial signs are restricted.
- Commercial, Mixed-Use, and Industrial Districts: Allow business identification signs, billboards, and electronic message signs to support local trade.
- Old Mill Heritage Conservation District: Protects the historic streetscape around the Tamsin River. Signs must match the heritage character of the area.
- Downtown and Fallsview District: Supports a vibrant streetscape with projecting signs, awning signs, and limited electronic displays.
Temporary and community signs
Temporary community signs are portable signs placed on the road right-of-way to promote local events, public meetings, or City services. You can apply for a permit through the Planning and Development team.
Rules for temporary signs
- Must not block traffic signals, signs, or crosswalks.
- Must stay at least two metres from the curb.
- Must be placed at least twenty metres apart from another temporary sign.
- Cannot be installed on prohibited highways or busy arterial roads.
- Maximum face size is three square metres.
- Must be removed within fourteen days of the event or permit expiry.
A single-use permit costs $75.00. An annual permit is available for organisations that post frequently, with tiered pricing based on the number of decals needed.
Exemptions
You do not need a sign permit for the following, provided they meet safety and placement rules:
- Address identification signs
- Commemorative or cultural banners
- Election campaign signs (follow the separate election sign by-law)
- Real estate signs for a property that is for sale or lease
- Window signs and small directional signs
- Signs required by law or a municipal by-law
How to apply
Ready to put up a sign? Visit the Sign permits and applications page to view the application form, fee schedule, and interactive map of approved locations. If you have questions about eligibility or need help with your application, email the Planning and Development team at [email protected].
Remember, any sign placed without prior approval will be removed by the City. We will not charge you to pick it up, but repeated violations may result in a fine under the Signage By-law 2022-072.