Short answer. Yes. Colwood requires a Sign Permit before you put up a new sign or alter an existing one. Applications are made online, with drawings attached.
What needs a permit
- A Sign Permit is required before putting up a new sign or altering an existing sign.
- No permit for: up to two unlit temporary signs of 1.5 m2 each (or one up to 3 m2), directional signs up to 0.4 m2, No Trespassing signs, site signs and window signs.
- A development permit does not include sign approval. A separate sign permit is needed for business signage.
Key rules
- Signage must meet the Sign Bylaw and line up with any sign plan already approved for the property.
- Permitted sign types depend on the zone, as set out in the Sign Bylaw.
How to apply
- Submit the online Sign Permit Application with drawings of the proposed signs. Attachments over 25 MB can be emailed to [email protected].
- Staff check the application for completeness and issue a fee slip. Fees are set in the Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 1603.
- After technical review and approval, the sign can be installed.
- Planning: 250-294-8153, [email protected].
Lit signs and electrical approval
The City of Colwood 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 Colwood sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.