Short answer. Yes. Langford requires a sign permit before you erect, place, construct or alter a sign. Changing the copy on a sign structure that already has a permit does not need a new permit.
What needs a permit
- No person may erect, place, construct or alter a sign without a permit (section 3).
- No permit for: window signs on the business's own premises, permitted temporary real estate signs, political signs, and copy changes on a permitted sign structure.
- A sign on a City street also needs a permit under the Streets and Traffic Bylaw.
Key rules
- Facade signs may project no more than 15 cm from the wall, except illuminated facade signs, which may project up to 0.6 m.
- Signs over a pedestrian area need 2.5 m clearance, and 4.5 m over vehicle areas.
- Facade signs may not exceed 25 m2 in total area, with further limits by sign zone.
- All signs must comply with the BC Building Code, and the part of the building carrying the sign must be structurally adequate.
How to apply
- Sign Permits are issued by the Planning Department. Use the Sign Permit application form on the City's Planning and Zoning page.
- The City's fee schedule lists $70 per sign for permanent signs such as facade, freestanding, projecting and canopy signs, adjusted each May 1 by CPI.
Lit signs and electrical approval
The City of Langford 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 Langford sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.