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S IGN B Y - LAW G UIDE BUSINESS IDENTIFICATION SIGNS SIGNS THAT IDENTIFY A BUSINESS

Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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Page 1: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Sign By-law

guide

BuSineSS identification SignS

SignS that identify a BuSineSS

Page 2: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern
Page 3: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Signs in Vancouver are administered depending on their location on private property, public right-of-ways, or parks. This guide summarizes the rules and permitting process for private property only, which is regulated by the Sign By-law.

The Sign By-law Guide is a companion to the Sign By-law. It is not a substitute for the Sign By-law. The Sign By-law always takes precedence over this guide if there are any discrepancies.

aBout the Sign By-law

Signs on City sidewalks, roads, boulevards (including sandwich boards and posters on light posts) are regulated by the Traffic and Streets By-law and are managed by Engineering Services.

Signs on City Parks are managed by the Park Board, through authority granted by the Vancouver Charter.

The Sign By-law is a set of rules for signs on private property.

ParkStreet, Boulevard or

Sidewalk

Private ProPerty

Sign By-law Guide 1

Page 4: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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finding your Sign diStrict

The Sign By-law organizes similar areas of the city into Sign Districts, and these correspond to groups of Zoning Districts. A property’s zoning district can be found using the City of Vancouver map system called VanMap, available here: http://vanmapp.vancouver.ca/pubvanmap_net/default.aspx

Standard zoning districts are assigned to sign districts in Part 7 of the Sign By-law.

If the zoning district is not listed on the chart in Part 7, it may have a unique zoning called a Comprehensive Development (CD-1) district. The Sign By-law assigns CD-1 district sign regulations as follows:

CD-1 District Assigned Sign District

CD-1 districts listed on general Schedule A

Part 9 - Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District

CD-1 districts listed in general Schedule B

One of: Part 10 - Chinatown and Gastown Historic Sign DistrictPart 11 - West End Sign DistrictPart 12 - Granville Street Sign DistrictPart 13 - Rogers Arena Sign DistrictPart 14 - International Village Sign District

CD-1 districts not listed on any general Schedules

Part 8 - Residential Sign District

legend

Residential Sign District (Part 8)

Commercial Sign District (Part 9)

Chinatown & Gastown Historic Sign District (Part 10)

West End Sign District (Part 11)

Granville Street Sign District (Part 12)

Rogers Arena Sign District (Part 13)

International Village Sign District (Part 14)

Park (Under Park Board management)

If residential use (Part 8), If commercial use (Part 9)

Sign By-law Guide2

Page 5: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Signs form part of the overall appearance of businesses within Vancouver neighbourhoods. Signage assists customers in reaching their destination, and reinforces business identities. The City of Vancouver supports commercial activity by allowing appropriate business identification and wayfinding signs, and discouraging sign proliferation and visual clutter to ensure the effectiveness of signs.

Successful business identification signs are:

Contextual

Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern established by nearby businesses or by the district are encouraged. Signs should integrate well with into a building’s architecture and not block architectural features. This can be achieved, for instance, by adding signs on an existing weather protection awning or canopy, or on blank sections of building walls.

Innovative

Creative sign placement, colours and materials add vibrancy to an area. Expressing business identity through unique sign designs add architectural character and interest. High quality materials that are durable and easily maintained should be used.

Clear

Signs should be focused, clear, and easy to read. This can be achieved through appropriately scaled lettering, simple graphics, channel letters, and colour contrast. Minimizing the overall number of signs on a building will help to focus attention on business signage. Using lighting that is focused and minimal will reduce impacts on nearby residents.

Well Located

Careful sign placement improves wayfinding and creates a pleasant experience for pedestrians. Allow for appropriate space underneath and around signs to maintain safe, clear travel paths for patrons. Views into businesses should be maintained by minimizing obstruction of windows. Locate signs in visible areas, near entry doors to direct patrons toward the business.

BuSineSS identification

deSign conSiderationS

Sign By-law Guide 3

Page 6: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Copy is the letters, logos and graphics that make up the message on a sign. The photos on the adjacent page illustrate the different types of copy described in the Sign By-law.

When considering signage needs for a premise, use a type of copy that compliments a building’s architecture. For instance, individual channel letters may minimize obstruction of architectural features and allow for clear business identification.

coPy tyPeS

Individual letters or numbers

Logos

Sign with a border, frame or background

Electronic message sign Electronic static image sign Electronic video sign

Sign By-law Guide4

Page 7: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

SIGN

SIGN

SIGNFrontage

Minimum clearance: 2.75 m (9 ft)

Vertical dimension Sign area ( )

Frontage

Frontage

Height

Copy area ( )

SIGN

Width

key terminology

For more information on key terminology, see Section 1.3 of the Sign By-law.

Sign By-law Guide 5

Page 8: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Sign diStrictS

reSidential Sign diStrict

commercial, mixed uSe and induStrial Sign diStrict

chinatown and gaStown hiStoric Sign diStrict

The Residential Sign District allows signs that are complimentary to residential city neighbourhoods, including signs for neighbourhood grocery stores. Regulations for the Residential Sign District can be found in Part 8 of the Sign By-law.

The Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District promotes business identification and wayfinding for many commercial and industrial properties in the city. Regulations for the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District can be found in Part 9 of the Sign By-law.

The Chinatown and Gastown Historic Sign District enhances the authentic historic character of Chinatown and Gastown. Regulations for the Chinatown and Gastown Historic Sign District can be found in Part 10 of the Sign By-law.

Private property is assigned to one of seven sign districts in the Sign By-law. There are two standard sign districts that apply to the majority of the city: the Residential Sign District and the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District. Five additional sign districts apply to unique areas of the city.

Sign By-law Guide6

Page 9: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

weSt end Sign diStrict

granville Street Sign diStrict

rogerS arena Sign diStrict

international village Sign diStrict

The West End Sign District integrates signage complementary to the residential character of the West End.Regulations for the West End Sign District can be found in Part 11 of the Sign By-law.

The Granville Street Sign District reflects the historic retail and entertainment role of Granville Street by encouraging colourful, vibrant, and neon signage. Regulations for the Granville Street Sign District can be found in Part 12 of the Sign By-law.

The Rogers Arena Sign District supports recreational and cultural activities through recognition of event sponsors, larger logos and wayfinding signs. Regulations for the Rogers Arena Sign District can be found in Part 13 of the Sign By-law.

The International Village Sign District encourages innovative, colourful, prominent signage to enhance the architecture of the Village Marketplace area. Regulations for the International Village Sign District can be found in Part 14 of the Sign By-law.

Sign By-law Guide 7

Page 10: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Sign tyPeS

1 Banner sign, p.22

2 Under awning sign, p. 14

3 Second storey fascia sign, p. 26

5 Awning sign, p. 12

4 Window sign, p. 38

There are a number of sign types that can be used for business identification.

Sign types are described in the definitions found in Section 1.3 in the Sign By-law and are illustrated generally here.

• Electronic message sign, p. 38

SIGN

SIGN

SIGNSIGN

1

2

3

4

56

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

Sign By-law Guide8

Page 11: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

SIGN

SIGN

SIGNSIGN

1

2

3

4

56

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

6 First storey fascia signs, p. 25

10 Sign in conjunction with a mural p. 34

7 Upper level fascia sign, p. 27

11 Painted fascia sign, p. 28

12 Projecting sign, p. 32

8 Canopy sign, p. 16 13 Free-standing sign, p. 36

9 Under canopy sign, p. 2014 Mansard roof sign, p. 30

Sign By-law Guide 9

Page 12: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Business Identification Sign Type

Permit RequiredResidential

Sign District

Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign

District

Chinatown and Gastown Historic

Sign District

West End Sign District

Granville Street Sign District

Rogers Arena Sign District

International Village Sign District

Awning and Under Awning • • • • • • •Canopy and Under Canopy • • • • • • •

Banner • • • • • • •Fascia – First Storey • • • • • • • •

Fascia – Above First Storey • •Fascia – Second Storey • • • • • • •

Fascia – Above the Second Storey •Fascia – Painted up to 3 Storeys • •

Fascia – Upper Level • • • • •Freestanding • • • • • • • •

Freestanding - Wayfinding • •Mansard Roof • • • • •

Projecting • • • • • • •Sign in Conjunction with a Mural • • • • •

Temporary Signs • • • • • • •Window • • • • • •

Signs with Animated Copy • •Electronic Message • • • • •

Permitted SignS

On this chart, the dots indicate the types of signs that are permitted in a Sign District.

Some sign types have additional criteria such as minimum site area or zoning. Review the specific regulations in the Sign By-law for each sign type to determine if it is allowed on your property.

Illustrations from pages 12 to 38 depict regulations for signs in the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District. Be sure to check the Sign By-law for exact requirements on a property.

Sign By-law Guide10

Page 13: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Business Identification Sign Type

Permit RequiredResidential

Sign District

Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign

District

Chinatown and Gastown Historic

Sign District

West End Sign District

Granville Street Sign District

Rogers Arena Sign District

International Village Sign District

Awning and Under Awning • • • • • • •Canopy and Under Canopy • • • • • • •

Banner • • • • • • •Fascia – First Storey • • • • • • • •

Fascia – Above First Storey • •Fascia – Second Storey • • • • • • •

Fascia – Above the Second Storey •Fascia – Painted up to 3 Storeys • •

Fascia – Upper Level • • • • •Freestanding • • • • • • • •

Freestanding - Wayfinding • •Mansard Roof • • • • •

Projecting • • • • • • •Sign in Conjunction with a Mural • • • • •

Temporary Signs • • • • • • •Window • • • • • •

Signs with Animated Copy • •Electronic Message • • • • •

Sign By-law Guide 11

Page 14: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

PERMIT REQUIRED

Awnings are light, detachable or retractable structures that provide weather protection along storefronts and businesses. Signs located on the front, side or soft fringe of an awning, or on a circular awning are called Awning Signs.

These illustrations depict regulations for Awning Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

awning SignS

Sign By-law Guide12

Page 15: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

lo

ca

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nc

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Maximum copy area

Grade

Maximum copy area

Roof line

Extends no more than 0.5 m above the roof line

Maximum height

6 m

Does not extend above the window of second floor

Grade

Minimum clearance

2.75m

Sign By-law Guide 13

Page 16: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

PERMIT REQUIRED

Awnings are light, detachable or retractable structures that provide weather protection along storefronts and businesses.

Signs located underneath an awning are Under Awning Signs. These signs are intended to be viewed by patrons on the sidewalk. They are situated perpendicular to a building and located near an entrance.

These illustrations depict regulations for Under Awning Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

under awning SignS

Sign By-law Guide14

Page 17: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

lo

ca

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Minimum clearance

2.75m

Maximum vertical dimension

0.3m

Maximum length

1.5m

SIGNS

Grade

Sign By-law Guide 15

Page 18: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Canopies are permanent roof structures that provide weather protection along storefronts and businesses. Signs attached to the front, side or above a canopy are Canopy Signs.

Premises with larger frontages may have larger Canopy Signs.

These illustrations depict regulations for Canopy Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

canoPy SignS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide16

Page 19: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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Maximum copy area

0.6 m2 X frontage length

Frontage

Grade

Grade

Maximum beyond the front of the canopy

0.6 m

Canopy

Maximum beyond the side of the canopy

0.6 mMinimum clearance

2.75m

Sign By-law Guide 17

Page 20: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Frontage > 30m

dim

en

Sio

nS

Less than 20% of canopy length

Canopy length

Theatre or premises with a frontage more than 30m

Canopy length

No more than 1.2 m above the canopy face

No more than 2 m above the canopy face

Less than 20% of canopy length

Maximum vertical dimension

1 mMaximum vertical dimension

2 m

Maximum vertical dimension

3 m

Maximum vertical dimension

1.5 m

PERMIT REQUIRED

Maximum vertical dimension

1 m

Maximum

0.45 mMaximum

0.45 m

A portion of a Canopy Sign may have a larger vertical dimension.

Theatre or premises with longer frontage may have a larger sign.

Sign By-law Guide18

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Sign By-law Guide 19

Page 22: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Canopies are permanent roof structures that provide weather protection along storefronts and businesses. Signs located perpendicular to a building and under a canopy are called Under Canopy Signs. Under Canopy Signs direct pedestrians along sidewalks to a premises entry. Under Canopy Signs should be located near the front door of a business.

These illustrations depict regulations for Under Canopy Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

under canoPy SignS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide20

Page 23: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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Canopy

Canopy

Maximum vertical dimension

0.45 m

Maximum length

1.5 m

Grade

the front canopy edge

Must not project beyond

Sign By-law Guide 21

Page 24: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

A banner is made of a light, flexible material, and is attached perpendicular to a building. In the Sign By-law, signs on a banner are called Banner Signs. These signs can be secured up to three edges and must not be illuminated. A permit is not required for this sign type.

A premises that may have one or multiple banner signs with a combined copy area that do not exceed the maximums described in Section 6.6 if the Sign By-law.

These illustrations depict regulations for Banner Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

Banner SignS

NO PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide22

Page 25: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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Perpendicular to a building face

Length

30% of copy

Maximum first-party advertising area:

2 X Length

Minimum vertical dimension:

Maximum sign area

4 m2

20% of sign area

Maximum copy area:

Sign By-law Guide 23

Page 26: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

A fascia sign is a sign attached parallel to a building face. Regulations for fascia signs are different for signs on the first, second and upper building storeys. Larger painted signs are allowed in industrial areas.

These illustrations depict regulations for Fascia Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

faScia SignS

First Storey Fascia Sign Painted Fascia Sign

Upper Level Fascia SignSecond Storey Fascia Sign

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide24

Page 27: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

firSt Storey faScia SignSl

oc

atio

nc

oP

y

Above the first storey window or lintel

+ ≤ 0.6 m2 x frontageCopy area =

Maximum 0.75 m above the floor of the second storey if there is no window

Maximum copy area: 0.6 m2 x frontage

Maximum copy area: 40% x frontage

Does not extend above the roof line

Frontage

FrontageFrontage

Frontage

L1 L2 L3

Maximum vertical dimension

0.6 m

Maximum width2.5 m

Lane

Street

Sign facing a lane

One-storey building

Multi-storey building

Signs below the top of first storey windows

Grade

Below the second storey

Copy area may exceed 40% of the sign area if the sign contains a logo only

when painted on a wall, the sign area may be up to 4 m2

Maximum sign area ≤ 0.3 x (L1+L2+L3) ≤ 3 m2;

Fascia Sign with a borderFascia Sign with channel letters

Identifies principle occupant or building name

Vertical dimension

Width

Sign By-law Guide 25

Page 28: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Second Storey faScia SignSl

oc

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Does not extend above the roof line

Below the window sill of the third storey

Maximum 0.75 m above the floor of the third storey

One sign on either the first or second storey

Frontage

0.4 m2 x frontage

Maximum copy area:

Maximum vertical dimension

1 m

Grade

PERMIT REQUIRED

2 Storey Premises

Individual letters only

Sign By-law Guide26

Page 29: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

uPPer level faScia SignS aBove the Second Storey l

oc

atio

nc

oP

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Maximum copy area: 47 m2

Copy area = Width x Length

Roof line

Length

A sign more than 55 m in height must contain copy consisting of a logo only

Over 55 m in height

Grade

Grade

Is between the floor of the uppermost storey and the roof line

One sign per building face; and maximum 2 signs on the building

Two signs on adjoining building faces are more than 2 m from a common corner

2m2m

40AND

Length

Grade

Width

Sign By-law Guide 27

Page 30: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Painted faScia SignS on BuildingS uP to three StoreyS

lo

ca

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nc

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No higher than the third storey

Frontage

Painted on the wall; identifies the principal occupant or building name only

Building face area

20% x building face ( of 1st, 2nd and 3rd storey)

Maximum copy area:

PERMIT REQUIRED

For more information see section 9.14 in the Sign By-law.

Sign By-law Guide28

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Sign By-law Guide 29

Page 32: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

A mansard roof has four sloping sides. A sign attached to a mansard roof is called a Mansard Roof Sign.

These illustrations depict regulations for Mansard Roof Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

manSard roof SignS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide30

Page 33: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

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No less than 0.3m below the roof line

Frontage

Frontage

Projects no more than 0.25 m from the roof at the base of the sign

Grade

0.6 m x frontage length

Maximum sign area:

Maximum copy area

Maximum height

8 m

Maximum vertical dimension

1.0 m

Sign By-law Guide 31

Page 34: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

Signs that are secured perpendicular to a building wall are called Projecting Signs. These signs are intended to be viewed by patrons on the sidewalk and should be located near an entrance. Projecting signs may also be located at the corner of a building.

For this sign type, sign area varies by zoning. In the Commercial, Mixed Use, Industrial Sign District, the maximum sign area ranges from 0.075m2 to 0.30m2 per length of frontage. See Table 9.3 in the Sign Bylaw for more information.

For projecting signs located at the corner of a premise, the calculation of maximum sign area is based on the average frontage length:

(Frontage 1 + Frontage 2) = Average Frontage __________________ 2

Each premises may have one projecting sign at the first storey.

These illustrations depict regulations for Projecting Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

Projecting SignS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide32

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Sign area depends on zoning, see Sign By-law section 9.20 Copy area may exceed

40% of the sign area if the sign contains a logo only

No greater than 0.3 m between the sign and the building face

Do not extend above 21 m in height

Do not extend above the roof line

Roof line

in height or 1.8 m above the roof line

Lower of 6 m

One-storey building Multi-storey building

Maximum copy area: 40% of the sign area

Grade

Property Line

Property Line

Encroachment no more than 25% x D; maximum 3 m

D

Encroaching projecting sign- site plan view

Fro

nta

geBuilding

Street

1.8 m

6 m

Sign By-law Guide 33

Page 36: Sign By law uide - Vancouver · Successful business identification signs are: Contextual Signs contribute to a cohesive commercial identity. Signs that are similar to the pattern

A mural is a graphic or art that is typically painted or affixed to a building wall. When a sign is incorporated into a mural, this is called a Sign in Conjunction with a Mural.

Murals are reviewed and approved by the City through a development permit process. The sign portion of the mural is considered through a Sign Permit Application. This can include the name of a building, principle occupant name or logo.

These illustrations depict regulations for Signs in Conjunction with a Mural from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

SignS in conjunction with a mural

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide34

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Maximum height above grade

20m

Grade

90%Mural

Maximum sign copy area

Sign By-law Guide 35

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Signs attached directly to the ground are Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs are suited to buildings that are setback from the property line and to identify multiple tenants on a shared sign.

The allowable size and encroachment of a freestanding sign varies by zoning. See Sign By-law section 9.15 for more information.

Sites over 25,000m2 may have freestanding wayfinding signs. These are signs attached to the ground that display information or maps for wayfinding. See Sign By-law section 9.16 for more information.

These illustrations depict regulations for Free-standing Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

free-Standing SignS

PERMIT REQUIRED

Sign By-law Guide36

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Maximum copy area

Sign area depends on zoning, see Sign By-law section 9.15(d)

Property Line

1.5 m from a property line

1 m away from a building

Grade

Maximum height

8 m

Grade

Copy area may exceed 40% of the sign area, if the sign contains a logo only

Depth

Encroaches no more than 25% x D; maximum 3 m

Building

Property Line

Property Line

Encroaching free-standing sign- site plan view

Copy area= +

Grade

Street

Do not include this area where sign area is 2.75 m above

Sign By-law Guide 37

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Signs located near to or on a window are Window Signs. This category of signs includes photographs, images and lifestyle graphics used to promote products or services available at a business. A permit is not required for this sign type.

As a general rule, window signs cannot be illuminated. However, a premise may locate one small illuminated electronic message sign in a window, such as an open or operating hours sign.

These illustrations depict regulations for Window Signs from the Commercial, Mixed Use and Industrial Sign District.

window SignS

NO PERMIT REQUIRED

Electronic Message Sign

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lo

ca

tio

nc

oP

y

Electronic message sign has a copy area no greater than 0.34 m2

OPENOPEN

SIGNS SIGNS

First storey premises

Grade

Second storey premises

Contiguous glass area =

10% of the contiguous glass area on the second storey

Maximum sign area:

30% of the contiguous glass area on the first storey

Maximum sign area:

+

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The Sign By-law contains standard illumination requirements for all signs in the City, which reduce impacts on residents and maintain safe conditions on streets and sidewalks.

Most signs on private property in Vancouver may be illuminated. In certain locations, illuminated signs may be restricted near dwelling units, or may have additional operating requirements. For more information, see section 5.11 in the Sign By-law.

illumination

Projecting sign with internal illumination Projecting sign with internal illumination

Fascia sign with external illumination

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Shield required if externally illuminated Do not illuminate from below

Lighting source concealed under the awning

Signs within 30 m must be turned off from 11.p.m - 7.a.m

Maximum 3.0 Lux above ambient light on adjacent site or street

Residential Sign District

Dwelling Units

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Most signs on private property in Vancouver require sign permits except those described in section 6 of the Sign By-law, such as Banner Signs, Window Signs, and signs displaying only a building number and street name.

The following documents are required for a complete sign permit application package:

1. Application Form

In the online Application Portal, information is added directly into online fields. A Sign Details Form, available in the Online Application Portal, is required. In person, customers fill out the City of Vancouver’s application form. This lists what documentation is required, and includes required fields for proposed sign dimensions. This form, including all dimensions, must be completed in full to be processed by staff. To assist in filling out this form, see the explanation of sign permit application form information requirements found on page 46 of this guide.

2. Sign Drawings

Copy, site plan, section and elevation drawings must identify and label the dimension measurements in metric. An example of a sign drawing package is shown on pages 44 to 45 in this guide.

3. Fees

The standard Sign Permit application fee is $294. Additional fees apply to signs that require electrical connections, a relaxation, for a billboard. For more information, consult the Sign Fee By-law. If you are applying in person, you can pay by cheque or credit card. Fees are automatically calculated in the online portal, and can be paid online by credit card.

making a Permit aPPlication

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4. Owners Undertaking Letter

An owners undertaking letter must be signed by the owner of the property or authorized signatory of a corporation that owns a property.

5. Supplemental documentation

Additional information may be required for certain sign proposals:

Awning Permits are required for new awning structures that include an awning signs.

Building Permits are required for signs over 200lbs, freestanding signs, projecting signs, and above the second storey of a building.

Electrical Permits are required for illuminated signs.

Heritage Alteration Permits are required for properties on the Vancouver Heritage Register.

Where to Submit an Application

Sign permit applications can be submitted:

Online, by registering for an online account and submitting an application.

In person, by submitting the application to the Development and Building Services Centre, located at:

Ground floor, 515 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC

After recieving a permit and beginning installation call 3-1-1 (604-873-7000) for an inspection.

Sign By-law Guide 43

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3.05 m (10 ft)

1.52 m (5 ft)

32.31 m (106 ft) Site width

20.12 m (66 ft) Building width 12.19 m (40 ft) Parking area

Cam

bie

St

0.61 m (2 ft)

0.37 m (1.2 ft)

0.37 m (1.2 ft)

Property Line

W 88th Ave

City Sidewalk

Curb

18.29 m (60 ft) Building and site depth

ADJACENT TENANT

ADJACENT TENANT

1213 W 88th AVE 1217 W 88th AVE1215 W 88th AVE

6.71 m (22 ft) frontage

1.83 m (6 ft)

3.05m (10 ft)

1.83m (6 ft)

0.24m (0.8 ft) sign box-3.05 m (10 ft) long

Proposed Sign

SIGN COPY DRAWING

Scale - 1:10

SITE PLAN FLOOR PLAN DRAWING

Scale - 1:200

SamPle drawing Package

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SECOND FLOOR TENANT

Store - 6.71m (22ft) Frontage

Top of Parapet Wall

Roof Line(bottom of parapet wall)

(first storey floor line)

Top of Proposed Sign

Second Storey Floor Line

Bottom of Proposed Sign

Grade

1.83m (6ft) 1.83m (6ft)3.05m (10ft)

0.61m (2ft)

2.93m (9.6ft)

0.3m (1ft)

0.3m (1ft)

2.74m (9ft)

Top of Parapet Wall

Roof Line(bottom of parapet wall)

(first storey floor line)

Top of Proposed Sign

Second Storey Floor Line

Bottom of Proposed Sign

Grade

0.61m (2ft)

2.93m (9.6ft)

0.3m (1ft)

0.3m (1ft)

2.74m (9ft)

0.2m (8in)

1.83m (6ft)Curb

ELEVATION DRAWING

Scale - 1:40

PARTIAL SECTION DRAWING AT SIGN LOCATION

Scale - 1:40

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Drawings identify the location and label dimensions of: Proposed: Sign Bylaw allowance for this premises:Proposed sign locationLocation of grade (ground)Clearance dimension (height from grade to bottom of sign)Premises frontage length dimensionBuilding storey floor lines locationDistance from the proposed sign to the nearest tenant (dimension)

For signs attached to a building, identify:Location of all windows and doorsRoof/parapet line locationHeight of sign and support structure above roof (dimension)Projection from building face (dimension)

Sign Structure and Materials - Required InformationFrame MaterialCross BracingSign Face MaterialMethod of AttachmentSign Weight Structural Drawings are required for: signs over 200lbs, freestanding signs, signs above the second storey.

Two signed sealed structural drawing sets are attachedOne copy of signed sealed B1/B2 Letters of AssuranceOne copy of signed sealed Structural Concept Review Letter

Forms are available at: http://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/application-forms-and-checklists.aspx

Sign By-law Compliance and RelaxationsDoes the proposed sign comply with the Sign By-law?Is a relaxation under Part 15 of the Sign By-law being requested? Identify the reason for the relaxation request:

Unnecessary hardship New TechnologyHeritage property, historic area, historic sign Special EventA rationale letter explaining the request and how the proposal meets the parameters of Part 15 of the Sign By-law is attached.

Information is available in the Sign By-law Relaxation and Sign By-law Amendment Guide at:http://vancouver.ca/your-government/sign-bylaw.aspx Electrical -

Required for Illuminated SignsType of IlluminationElectrical contractor must be named on the application for a sign permit to do interconnection of electrical components of a sign, if the sign contractor is not a registeredelectrical contractor. A separate electrical permit is required for a power supply connection to a permenantely connected sign. This permit shall be obtained by an electricalcontractor under provisions of the City Electrical By-Law (Bulletin 2005-006-EL).Electrical Contractor - NameAttachment “A” to Bulletin 2005-006-EL/AD, Letter of Commitment is attached

The form is available at: http://bulletins.vancouver.ca/2005/2005-006.pdf

Sign Company, Manufacturer, Owner and Tenant Information - RequiredSign Contractor - NameAddress, City, Postal CodePhoneEmailProperty Owner - NameAddress, City, Postal CodePhoneEmail

Owners undertaking letter is attachedA form letter is available at: http://vancouver.ca/files/cov/schedule-e1-owners-undertaking-letter.pdf

Tenant - NameAddress, City, Postal CodePhoneEmail

Applicant Signature - Required InformationName of Applicant:Applicant is:

Sign Company OwnerTenant Other (explain):

As owner or owner's agent, I have verified that the information contained within this document and associated applications and plans is correct and that I am acting with theowner's full knowledge and permission. In consideration of the granting of a Sign Permit I agree to comply with all applicable requirements of the Sign By-law, Zoning andDevelopment By-law, Building By-law and Encroachment By-law, and all other applicable laws, by-laws and regulations, and to indemnify and save harmless the City of Vancouver and its officials, officers, employees and agents ("City Personnel") against all claims, liabilities, judgements, costs and expenses which may accrue against the City ofVancouver in consequence of and incidental to the permissions to place, erect or display the sign. I further certify that the sign and its supports meet the constructionrequirements in the Sign Bylaw and the Building By-law.Signature of Applicant (Authorized Officer of Company):

Office Use OnlyApplication Number

Date Application was ReceivedPermit Fee Amount

Electrical Fee AmountStructural Fee Amount

Other Fee AmountTotal Fee

Receipt Number

(2)

Partial Section Drawings at the Sign Location - Required Information

No

No

3 m 2.75 m

exPlanation of Sign Permit aPPlication form

information requirementS

Identify the exact dimensions

Identify the maximum or minimum allowed in the Sign By-law

Check the box to indicate that the required document is in your application package

Sign By-law Guide46

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City Hall 453 West 12th Ave Vancouver, BC V5Y 1V4

3-1-1

604-873-7000