Short answer. Yes. Burnaby requires a sign permit before any sign is put up, altered or moved, unless the sign is listed as exempt. A new Sign Bylaw took effect on July 1, 2026.
What needs a permit
- A sign permit is needed before erecting, placing, displaying, rebuilding, altering or moving any sign (section 6.1).
- A site with more than two signs that need permits must have an approved comprehensive sign plan, unless an existing approved plan already covers it (section 6.2).
- No permit for: content changes, painting and minor repairs to a permitted sign; temporary for sale, for rent or lease signs up to 0.4 m2; and certain signs in Schedule I such as directional, parking and trespass signs and temporary window signs during a tenant fit-out.
- Exempt signs must still meet the bylaw.
Key rules
- Fascia signs may project no more than 1 foot from the wall and may not be placed above the second storey (section 5.6).
- Fascia sign area limits depend on the zoning district, for example 20% of the wall surface in C2 districts (Schedule V).
- Illuminated signs must have an ambient light sensor, and between sunset and sunrise may not be brighter than 0.3 foot-candles above the ambient light of the adjacent street (section 5.4).
- The sign permit must cover how the sign attaches to the wall or roof, and each sign must show its weight and the maker's name (sections 3.2 and 3.3).
How to apply
- The City recommends a pre-application review with a Sign Bylaw Technician before you submit.
- For an illuminated sign, the application package also includes an Electrical Permit Application for signs. A separate electrical permit may be needed for the branch circuit that brings power to the sign.
- Planning and Development Department, 4949 Canada Way. Phone 604-294-7400, [email protected].
Lit signs and electrical approval
The City of Burnaby sign permit covers size, placement and appearance. Electrical safety is a separate approval. In BC, the Electrical Safety Regulation does not allow electrical equipment to be used or sold unless it carries an accredited certification mark. For an electric sign the Canadian standard is CSA C22.2 No. 207, and the mark goes on the finished sign. The connection is made by a licensed electrician under an electrical permit. More in our guide to cUL certified signs.
Sources
This page summarizes official City of Burnaby sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.