Sign permits in Pitt Meadows

What needs a permit

• A permit is required before erecting, rebuilding, altering, enlarging, extending or relocating a sign (section 4.1).
• No one may change the structure, copy area, lighting or colour of a permanent sign without a permit (section 5.1).
• Normal maintenance, including replacing copy and lighting, does not need a permit but must meet the bylaw.
• Window signs do not need a permit if they cover no more than 25% of a window or group of windows.

Key rules

• Canopy signs need at least 2.7 m clearance above grade.
• Generally one fascia sign per business and one freestanding sign per parcel, with exceptions in the bylaw.
• The City may require a letter from a registered BC Professional Engineer before issuing a permit.
• A Comprehensive Sign Plan is submitted as part of a Development Permit where one is required.

How to apply

• Get the application form from City Hall: 604-465-5454 or [email protected].
• Include scaled drawings showing location, type, size, height, colour, sign area, copy area, clearance, construction, finishes and estimated cost; names of the applicant, owner, manufacturer and contractor; and the owner's authorization if you are not the owner.
• Fees, insurance and any damage deposit are set out in the Sign Bylaw.

Lit signs and electrical approval

The City of Pitt Meadows 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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