Sign Variance
What is a Sign By-law?
A Sign By-law controls the details of signs in the City by setting out rules related to their size, location and the type of sign permitted.
In the City of Oshawa, signs are regulated by Sign By-law 72-96.
What is a Sign Variance?
A sign variance is a minor change to the Sign By-law for a specific property.
An example of a sign variance may involve a case where an owner wants to install a sign on a business with a sign area of 1.0 square metres (10.7 sq. ft.) but the Sign By-law allows a maximum sign area of 0.9 square metres (9.7 sq. ft.). To install the larger sign, the owner requires a sign variance.
How does a person apply for a Sign Variance?
To apply for a variance to the Sign By-law, please complete the Application for a Sign Variance and submit to Planning Services.
The process for a Sign Variance is described below.
| Step 1 - Pre-consultation |
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Applicant has discussions with staff of Planning Services. Building Services may also be consulted as a building permit for the sign may be required. |
| Step 2 - Submission of Application |
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Complete application and fee is submitted to Planning Services. |
| Step 3 - Agency Circulation |
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Administration Services circulates the application to various City staff and outside agencies for comment, if required. |
| Step 4 - Site Visit |
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Development Services staff may inspect the site and take pictures as necessary. |
| Step 5 - Recommendation |
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Planning Services will review and provide a recommendation to the Director of Planning Services for a decision. |
| Step 6 - Decision |
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Administration Services will provide written notice and a copy of the Director’s decision to the agent, if applicable, unless otherwise noted on the application. |
| Step 7 - Building Permit |
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Should the application for variance(s) be approved, a building permit may be required. |
| Step 8 - Denial of Application |
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Any controversial applications or applications that are proposed to be denied may be forwarded by the Commissioner at his or her discretion for Council’s consideration. Should Council make a decision on the application Administration Services will provide written notice and a copy of Council’s decision to the agent, if applicable, unless otherwise noted on the application. |