Short answer. Yes. In Metchosin a permit is needed before placing any sign except a home identification sign. Signs are regulated by Part 8 of the Land Use Bylaw, which limits letter height, projection and lighting.
What needs a permit
- A permit must be obtained before placing any sign, except home identification signs.
- No sign may be placed on or project over a highway, other than signs put up by the Municipality and similar official signs.
Key rules
- No sign may project more than 0.3 m from the building face.
- No letter, figure or symbol on any sign may exceed 0.4 m in height or width.
- Only externally lit signs are allowed (light directed toward the sign), and only in Commercial, Commercial Recreation, Industrial or Institutional zones, or for home identification signs.
- Freestanding signs: top no higher than 2 m above natural grade.
- No roof top signs or billboards.
- Home business: one sign, up to 0.5 m2 per face and two faces.
How to apply
- Contact the District of Metchosin Municipal Hall for a sign permit before installing.
- The District also has sign policies for business directional signs, artisan signs and bed and breakfast signs.
Lit signs and electrical approval
The District of Metchosin 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 District of Metchosin sources. Bylaws and fees change, so confirm with the municipality before you order or install a sign.