Sign permits in Port Alberni

What needs a permit

• No sign may be erected, placed, displayed, altered or moved without a permit, except as the bylaw allows (section 7.1).
• A change of copy or colour does not need a permit, other than a change of the owner or business name (section 7.2).
• Normal maintenance, including replacing copy, lighting or refurbishing, does not need a permit.

Key rules

• Illuminated fascia signs are permitted only in listed commercial, industrial, institutional and waterfront zones.
• Fascia signs need at least 2.5 m clearance, may project no more than 0.3 m from the wall, and may not extend above the parapet or eaves.
• The City may require a plan certified by a BC Professional Engineer or Architect for the sign structure and fastenings.
• Signs must comply with the BC Building Code and BC Electrical Code.

How to apply

• Apply to the Building Department with the Sign Permit Application, a written description, a land title copy dated within 30 days, and two sets of metric sign plans showing copy, colours, dimensions, height, clearance, wall dimensions and structural details, plus two copies of a metric site plan.
• The application form lists a fee of $40, plus $6 for each additional $1,000 of value as determined by the Building Inspector.
• Building Inspector: 250-720-2832.

Lit signs and electrical approval

The City of Port Alberni 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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