Short answer. Yes. New business signs in Ladysmith need a sign permit before installation. The application goes in with a building permit, or with a business licence application if no building permit is needed.
What needs a permit
- New business signs require a sign permit before installation.
- Apply together with a building permit, or with a business licence application if no building permit is needed (section 3.1.1).
- No permit for signs that cannot be seen from a street or public place, signs inside a building (other than window signs), and sandwich boards that meet section 4.11.
Key rules
- All signs and logos for an occupant may not exceed 0.1 m2 for every 0.30 m of the occupant's business frontage.
- No roof top signs and no flashing signs in any zone.
- Projecting signs: at least 2.4 m above grade, projecting no more than 1 m over a street, and up to 1.1 m2 of display surface on the first storey.
- A permit expires after 180 days if the work is incomplete.
How to apply
- Use the Town's Sign Permit Application Form.
- The Fees and Charges Bylaw lists a $100 sign permit fee.
- Development Services: 250-245-6415.
Lit signs and electrical approval
The Town of Ladysmith 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 Town of Ladysmith sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.