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Sign permits in Delta

City of Delta, Metro Vancouver. Governing rules: Delta Sign Bylaw No. 5860.

Checked November 2026

Short answer. Yes, for most business signs. Delta needs a sign permit to build, place, move, alter or do a major repair on a sign unless Section 7 of the Sign Bylaw exempts it. Some fascia identification signs are exempt if they meet set conditions.

What needs a permit

  • A permit is needed to construct, place, erect, relocate, display, alter or do a major repair on a sign, unless it is exempt under Section 7.
  • Not covered by the bylaw at all: signs under 0.1 m2, signs inside a building not meant to be seen from the street, building address markers, flags and service instruction signs such as on gas pumps.
  • Exempt from a permit only if the bylaw's conditions are met: fascia identification and fascia directory signs, window, banner and construction site signs, home occupation signs and several others.
  • Billboards and rotating signs are prohibited (section 4.2).

Key rules

  • Ladner Village, Tsawwassen Town Centre, Scott Road and the Nordel Social Heart are special sign areas with their own rules.
  • Where a comprehensive sign plan has been approved for a building or complex, new signs must follow it.
  • A Development Variance Permit can be requested to vary the Sign Bylaw.

How to apply

  • Apply online through Delta Online (eApply, Sign Permit template) and enter the total number of proposed signs.
  • Fee: $835 per application.
  • After installation, email [email protected] with photos of the signs, the permit number and the address to request a final inspection.
  • If the sign also needs a building permit, building inspections follow the normal building permit process.
  • Development Department: 604-946-3380, [email protected].

Lit signs and electrical approval

The City of Delta 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 Delta sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.