Sign permits in Parksville

What needs a permit

• A sign permit is required for all new or replacement signs unless expressly exempt.
• An approved permit stays valid while the business is open and the sign is unchanged. Any change to the copy, size, type or location needs a new permit.
• No permit for construction, directory, directional, sandwich board, real estate, special event and window signs.
• Signs in a development permit area must also meet that area's guidelines.

Key rules

• Prohibited: animated copy (motion, rotation, flashing or colour changes, other than time and temperature), balloon signs, banner signs, roof signs, third party signs and obsolete signs.
• Size, type, height and location depend on the property's zoning.
• Approved signs must be installed within 6 months of the permit.

How to apply

• Submit the sign permit application signed by the property owner and the applicant, with a site plan showing property lines, buildings and sign locations.
• For an illuminated sign, include a drawing or rendering showing how the sign will look in the dark.
• The permit fee is paid after the permit is issued. Reviews generally take one to two weeks.

Lit signs and electrical approval

The City of Parksville 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.

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