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Orillia
832.1
January 2025
Property Maintenance
Chapter 832
Signs
Chapter Index
Article 1
Title
832.1.1
Title and scope
Article 2
Definitions
832.2.1
Advertising device - defined
832.2.2
Awning sign - defined
832.2.3
Banner sign - defined
832.2.4
Billboard sign - defined
832.2.5
Business directory sign - defined
832.2.6
Calendar year - defined
832.2.7
Campaign office - defined
832.2.8
Candidate - defined
832.2.9
Canopy sign - defined
832.2.10
Charitable organization (registered) - defined
832.2.11
Children at play - defined
832.2.12
City - defined
832.2.13
Commercial Zone - defined
832.2.14
Institutional Zone - defined
832.2.15
Contractor sign - defined
832.2.16
Copy - defined
832.2.17
Council - defined
832.2.18
Designated Official - defined
832.2.19
Development sign - defined
832.2.20
Development directional sign - defined
832.2.21
Directional sign - defined
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832.2.22
Downtown Orillia Sign Design Criteria - defined
832.2.23
Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA) Board - defined
832.2.24
Downtown Sign Permit Area - defined
832.2.25
Drive-through restaurant menu board - defined
832.2.26
Electronic illumination sign - defined
832.2.27
Electronic variable message centre - defined
832.2.28
Erect - defined
832.2.29
Flag - defined
832.2.30
Flashing sign - defined
832.2.31
Front lot line - defined
832.2.32
Garage or yard sale - defined
832.2.33
General Commercial Zone - defined
832.2.34
Grade - defined
832.2.35
Ground sign - defined
832.2.36
Height - defined
832.2.37
Highway - defined
832.2.38
Hoarding sign - defined
832.2.39
Home occupation sign - defined
832.2.40
Illuminated - defined
832.2.41
Industrial Zone - defined
832.2.42
Inflatable sign - defined
832.2.43
Interior sign - defined
832.2.44
Internally illuminated - defined
832.2.45
Intersection - defined
832.2.46
Lawfully erected - defined
832.2.47
Lewd - defined
832.2.48
Linear horizontal metre - defined
832.2.49
Lot - defined
832.2.50
Lot frontage - defined
832.2.51
Maintenance and repair - defined
832.2.52
Mobile sign - defined
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832.3
January 2025
832.2.53
Moving sign - defined
832.2.54
Multi-occupancy building - defined
832.2.55
Multi-storey building - defined
832.2.56
Mural - defined
832.2.57
Non-profit organization - defined
832.2.58
Non-standard sign - defined
832.2.59
Obsolete sign - defined
832.2.60
Officer - defined
832.2.61
Open house directional sign - defined
832.2.62
Owner of the property - defined
832.2.63
Person - defined
832.2.64
Poster sign - defined
832.2.65
Premises - defined
832.2.66
Property - defined
832.2.67
Property address sign - defined
832.2.68
Property line - defined
832.2.69
Projecting sign - defined
832.2.70
Public election sign - defined
832.2.71
Public information sign - defined
832.2.72
Public property - defined
832.2.73
Public service group - defined
832.2.74
Pump island - defined
832.2.75
Readograph sign - defined
832.2.76
Real estate sign - defined
832.2.77
Registered third party - defined
832.2.78
Required parking space - defined
832.2.79
Residential Zone - defined
832.2.80
Restaurant menu boards - defined
832.2.81
Roadway - defined
832.2.82
Sandwich board sign - defined
832.2.83
Seasonal business - defined
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832.2.84
Side lot line - defined
832.2.85
Sight triangle - defined
832.2.86
Sign - defined
832.2.87
Sign area - defined
832.2.88
Sign face - defined
832.2.89
Sign permit - defined
832.2.90
Soffit sign - defined
832.2.91
Street - defined
832.2.92
Street line - defined
832.2.93
Substantially altered - defined
832.2.94
Temporary (sign) - defined
832.2.95
Theatre display case - defined
832.2.96
Three dimensional - defined
832.2.97
Traffic signals - defined
832.2.98
Vacant property - defined
832.2.99
Wall sign - defined
832.2.100
Window sign - defined
Article 3
General Provisions
832.3.1
Compliance with this Chapter
832.3.2
Delegated authority
832.3.3
Existing signs
Article 4
Sign Permit
832.4.1
Sign permit - general
832.4.2
Compliance with plans
832.4.3
Approval authorities
832.4.4
Responsibility and compliance
832.4.5
False or misleading information
832.4.6
Permit expiration
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832.5
January 2025
832.4.7
Permitted use of land
832.4.8
Fees required
Article 5
Exempted Signs
832.5.1
Signs exempt from a sign permit - general
832.5.2
Signs exempt from a sign permit - permitted on public property
832.5.3
Signs exempt from a sign permit - Downtown Sign Permit Area
832.5.4
Deemed prohibited
Article 6
Prohibitions
832.6.1
Removal or deface
832.6.2
Prohibited signs - general
832.6.3
Prohibited signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
832.6.4
Prohibited sign locations - general
Article 7
Banner Signs
832.7.1
Banner signs - regulations
Article 8
Billboard Signs
832.8.1
Billboard signs - regulations
Article 9
Development Signs
832.9.1
Development signs - regulations
Article 10
Ground Signs
832.10.1
Ground signs - regulations
832.10.2
Ground signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
Property Maintenance
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832.6
January 2025
Article 11
Hoarding Signs
832.11.1
Hoarding signs - regulations
Article 12
Mobile Signs
832.12.1
Mobile signs - regulations
832.12.2
Mobile signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
Article 13
Projecting Signs
832.13.1
Projecting signs - regulations
Article 14
Sandwich Board Signs
832.14.1
Sandwich board signs - regulations
832.14.2
Sandwich board signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
Article 15
Soffit Signs
832.15.1
Soffit signs - regulations
Article 16
Wall Signs
832.16.1
Wall signs - regulations
832.16.2
Wall signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
Article 17
Sign Variance Process
832.18.1
Sign variance
Article 18
Enforcement
832.18.1
Enforcement
832.18.2
Entry and inspection
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832.18.3
Removal of unlawful signs on or over City property
832.18.4
Removal of unlawful signs from private property
832.18.5
Storage and disposal
832.18.6
Hinder or Obstruct
832.18.7
Revocation of permit
832.18.8
Penalties
832.18.9
Interpretation
832.18.10
Conflict - Sign Chapter - prevails
832.18.11
Validity and severability
832.18.12
Rebuttable presumption - identification
Schedules
Schedule "A" - Boundary of Downtown Sign Permit Area
Schedule "B" - Permitted Sign Location for Orchard Point Corporation
Schedule "C" - Existing Non-Complying Ground Signs Within the DSPA
__________
Article 1
Title and Scope
832.1.1
Title and scope
This Chapter shall be known and cited as the "Sign Chapter" and shall apply to the whole
geographic limits of the City of Orillia. In the text of this Chapter, it is referred as "this
Chapter".
Article 2
Definitions
832.2.1
Advertising device - defined
"advertising device" means any medium or object erected so as to attract public
attention to any goods, services, facilities or events.
832.2.2
Awning sign - defined
"awning sign" means a retractable structure covered with fabric or like material that is
attached to and projects from the exterior wall of a building or structure over a window
or door and provides shade or other protection from the elements and that is or
functions as a sign.
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832.2.3
Banner sign - defined
"banner" means a sign that is made of cloth, plastic, canvas or a similar non-rigid type of
material and includes a pennant, spinner or streamer.
832.2.4
Billboard sign - defined
"billboard sign" means a sign which is erected and maintained by a person engaged in
the sale or rental of space thereon to a third party clientele, upon which space there is
displayed advertising describing one (1) or more products or services which are not
made, produced, assembled, sold or stored on the lot or premises upon which the
billboard sign is located.
832.2.5
Business directory sign - defined
"business directory sign" means a sign that displays the names and / or location of
businesses within a designated business area.
832.2.6
Calendar year - defined
"calendar year" means the period of a year beginning January 1 and ending December
31 of the same year.
832.2.7
Campaign office - defined
"campaign office" means a building or portion of a building which is used by a candidate
or an agent of a candidate as part of an election campaign and where a candidate's
campaign staff are normally present and the public may enter to obtain information
about the candidate.
832.2.8
Candidate - defined
"candidate" means a person officially nominated as a candidate at an election.
832.2.9
Canopy sign - defined
"canopy sign" means a non-retractable awning or roof-like structure which may be free
standing or attached to a building or structure, erected for the purpose of shelter and
that is or functions as a sign.
832.2.10
Charitable organization (registered) - defined
"charitable organization (registered)" means a registered charity as defined in the
Income Tax Act (Canada) or successor legislation, which has a registration number
issued by the Canada Revenue Agency, or successor agency.
832.2.11
Children at play sign - defined
"children at play sign" means a temporary non-standard sign intended to alert motorists
to the potential of children within the area.
832.2.12
City - defined
"City" means the Corporation of the City of Orillia.
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832.2.13
Commercial Zone - defined
"Commercial Zone" means a land use zone designated in the City of Orillia Zoning By-
law.
832.2.14
Institutional Zone - defined
"Institutional Zone" means a land use zone designated in the City of Orillia Zoning By-
law.
832.2.15
Contractor sign - defined
"contractor sign" means a sign which is temporarily placed on private property by a
person who is performing work on the property, including but not limited to general
contractors, painters and renovators.
832.2.16
Copy - defined
"copy" means the graphic content of a sign surface in either permanent or removable
letter, pictorial, symbolic, or numeric form.
832.2.17
Council - defined
"Council" means the Council of the Corporation of the City of Orillia.
832.2.18
Designated Official - defined
"Designated Official" means the General Manager of Development Services and
Engineering or a City Planner.
832.2.19
Development sign - defined
"development sign" means a sign for the purpose of advertising or promoting to
prospective owners, tenants or investors a development, building and / or buildings
lawfully permitted by the City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.20
Development directional sign - defined
"development directional sign" means a temporary non-illuminated freestanding sign
displayed on public property indicating the name of and direction to a new residential
development.
832.2.21
Directional sign - defined
"directional sign" means a sign for public safety or convenience regulating on-premises
traffic, parking or other services such as lavatory facilities, telephone, sales,
maintenance, office, deliveries and bearing no commercial advertising.
832.2.22
Downtown Orillia Sign Design Criteria - defined
"Downtown Orillia Sign Design Criteria" means a sign that has the following
characteristics:
(a)
Business name shall be three dimensional on all wall, ground, projecting
and soffit signs.
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832.10
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832.2.23
Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA) Board -
defined
"Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA) Board" means a business
development body, representative of the member businesses within the City of Orillia's
designated Business Improvement Area.
832.2.24
Downtown Sign Permit Area - defined
"Downtown Sign Permit Area" means the geographic boundary as set out in Schedule
"A" to this Chapter where signage is required to conform to Downtown Orillia Sign
Design Criteria.
832.2.25
Drive-through restaurant menu board - defined
"drive-through restaurant menu board" means permanent menu displays at a restaurant
drive-through.
832.2.26
Electronic illumination sign - defined
"electronic illumination sign" means a video monitor or other medium for displaying
electronically animated images.
832.2.27
Electronic variable message centre - defined
"electronic variable message centre" means an illuminated sign or part thereof which
displays information to the public by way of prearranged or variable sequence of
electronically generated letters, words, light patterns or shapes.
832.2.28
Erect - defined
"erect" means to affix, install, post or display.
832.2.29
Flag - defined
"flag" means typically, a piece of fabric of distinctive design that is used as an
advertising device.
832.2.30
Flashing sign - defined
"flashing sign" means a sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source or
which includes the illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an
externally mounted light source, but does not include an electronic variable message
centre.
832.2.31
Front lot line - defined
"front lot line" means the front lot line as defined in the City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.32
Garage or yard sale - defined
"garage or yard sale" means a sale of used household or personal articles held on the
seller's own residential premises.
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832.11
January 2025
832.2.33
General Commercial Zone - defined
"General Commercial Zone" means a land use zone designated in the City of Orillia
Zoning By-law.
832.2.34
Grade - defined
"grade" means the average surface elevation of the finished ground below a sign.
832.2.35
Ground sign - defined
"ground sign" means a sign supported by one (1) or more uprights, poles or braces, or
located on a structural base placed in or upon the ground.
832.2.36
Height - defined
"height" means the vertical distance between the finished grade and the highest point of
the sign or sign structure.
832.2.37
Highway - defined
"highway" means a common and public highway, street, avenue, parkway, driveway,
square, place, bridge, viaduct or trestle, any part of which is intended for or used by the
general public for the passage of vehicles and includes the area between the lateral
property lines thereof.
832.2.38
Hoarding sign - defined
"hoarding sign" means a sign attached to a temporary physical barrier erected around a
building, structure or site under construction, repair or demolition.
832.2.39
Home occupation sign - defined
"home occupation sign" means a sign identifying a home occupation as defined in the
City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.40
Illuminated sign - defined
"illuminated sign" means a sign that provides artificial light directly, or through any
transparent or translucent material, or a sign illuminated by a light focused upon or chiefly
directed at the surface of the sign.
832.2.41
Industrial Zone - defined
"Industrial Zone" means a land use zone designated in the City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.42
Inflatable sign - defined
"inflatable sign" means a sign filled with air or gas and shall include balloons.
832.2.43
Interior sign - defined
"interior sign" means a sign not visible or intended to be seen from off the premises on
which the sign is located.
832.2.44
Internally illuminated - defined
"internally illuminated" means to make luminous or shining from within the structure.
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832.12
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832.2.45
Intersection - defined
"intersection" means the area embraced within the prolongation or connection of the lateral
curb lines or, if none, then of the lateral boundary lines of two or more highways which join
one another at an angle, whether or not one crosses the other.
832.2.46
Lawfully erected - defined
"lawfully erected" means a sign erected or displayed in compliance with any by-law
regulating signs at the time the sign was first erected or displayed and with any other
by-laws, rules, regulations or statutes requiring permits or approvals for the sign
including site plan approvals or other City approvals such as building permits.
832.2.47
Lewd - defined
"lewd" includes foul, profane or abusive language or derogatory racial and ethnic
references.
832.2.48
Linear horizontal metre - defined
"linear horizontal metre" means the distance in metric from one point to another
measured in a straight line.
832.2.49
Lot - defined
"lot" means any parcel of land whether such parcel is described in a registered deed, or
shown as a lot or block in a registered plan of subdivision on which a sign is located or
intended to be located.
832.2.50
Lot frontage - defined
"lot frontage" means the horizontal distance between the side lot lines as defined in the
City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.51
Maintenance and repair - defined
"maintenance and repair" means anything done to preserve the condition of a sign or to
prevent the deterioration of the sign and includes the restoration of a sign by removing
or replacing worn out, missing, damaged or broken parts.
832.2.52
Mobile sign - defined
"mobile sign" means a sign that is temporary, is capable of being readily moved from
one location to another, and may be part of or attached to a wheeled trailer or frame
without wheels.
832.2.53
Moving sign - defined
"moving sign" means a sign with visible moving parts, visible mechanical movement of
any description, or other apparent movement achieved by actions of normal wind currents
but not including flags or banners.
832.2.54
Multi-occupancy building - defined
"multi-occupancy building" means a building with more than one (1) business occupant.
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832.13
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832.2.55
Multi-storey building - defined
"multi-storey building" means a building with more than one (1) habitable storey.
832.2.56
Mural - defined
"mural" means any type of display or artistic endeavour applied as paint, film or any
other covering to any external wall or other integral part of a building or structure which
does not include any works or advertisement or any other promotional message or
content, including logos or trademark.
832.2.57
Non-profit organization - defined
"non-profit organization" means an organization that does not distribute its surplus funds
to owners or shareholders, but instead uses them to help pursue its goals.
832.2.58
Non-standard sign - defined
"non-standard sign" means a sign intended to increase public safety but does not
comply with the Ontario Traffic Manual - Book 6 guidelines.
832.2.59
Obsolete sign- defined
"obsolete sign" means a sign that advertises a business no longer being conducted or a
product no longer being sold.
832.2.60
Officer - defined
"Officer" means a Municipal By-law Enforcement Officer or Police Officer.
832.2.61
Open house directional sign - defined
"open house directional sign" means a temporary real estate sign intended to provide
direction to an open house for residential property currently for sale.
832.2.62
Owner of the property - defined
"owner of the property" means the registered owner of the property at which the sign is
located and, in the case of a condominium, shall mean the condominium corporation or a
person authorized to act on behalf of the corporation.
832.2.63
Person - defined
"person" includes any individual, corporation, association, sole proprietorship, partnership,
company, firm, business, authorized agent, trustee, and the heirs, executors or other legal
representatives of a person, or any combination of the foregoing.
832.2.64
Poster sign - defined
"poster sign" means a notice conveying information intended to be displayed for a
temporary period of time and includes, but is not limited to a bill, handbill, leaflet, or
placard.
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832.14
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832.2.65
Premises - defined
"premises" means the area of a building(s) or part thereof and / or land(s) or part thereof
occupied or used by a business or enterprise. In a multiple occupancy building occupied
by more than one (1) business, each business shall be considered a separate premise.
832.2.66
Property - defined
"property" means a parcel of land which can be legally conveyed pursuant to the
Planning Act and includes any buildings and structures thereon.
832.2.67
Property address sign - defined
"property address sign" means a sign that identifies a property's municipally designated
numerical address and may include the street name and which complies with Chapter
825 of the Municipal Code - Numbering of Buildings and Lots.
832.2.68
Property line - defined
"property line" means any boundary of a lot.
832.2.69
Projecting sign - defined
"projecting sign" means a sign which projects at an angle from, and is supported by, a
wall of a building or structure.
832.2.70
Public election sign - defined
"public election sign" means a temporary sign:
(a)
Advertising, promoting or opposing a candidate in a federal, provincial or
municipal election including an election of a local board or commission; or
(b)
Intended to influence persons to vote for or against any candidate or any
question or by-law submitted to the electors under Section 8 of the
Municipal Elections Act, 1996; or
(c)
Used in connection with a referendum.
832.2.71
Public information sign - defined
"public information sign" means a sign providing direction to a hospital, school, college or
university, police station or a Tourist Oriented Directional Sign (TODS).
832.2.72
Public property - defined
"public property" means property owned by the City or any other public authority and
shall include the entire municipal highway.
832.2.73
Public service group - defined
"public service group" means a club or organization dedicated to a public service.
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832.15
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832.2.74
Pump island - defined
"pump island" means the raised structure upon which gasoline pumps are located, but
does not include a canopy or any other attached structure.
832.2.75
Readograph sign - defined
"readograph sign" means a permanent sign composed of manually or electronically
interchangeable letters intended to convey a temporary message.
832.2.76
Real estate sign - defined
"real estate sign" means a temporary non-illuminated sign displayed on property and
advertising the sale, rent or lease of the property.
832.2.77
Registered third party - defined
"registered third party" means one of the following and whose notice of registration has
been filed and certified with the City Clerk pursuant to Section 88.6 of the Municipal
Elections Act:
(a) An individual who is normally a resident in Ontario;
(b) A corporation that carries on business in Ontario; or,
(c) A trade union that holds bargaining rights for employees in Ontario.
832.2.78
Required parking space - defined
"required parking space" means a defined area exclusive of driveways or aisles, for the
temporary parking or storage of motor vehicles.
832.2.79
Residential Zone - defined
"Residential Zone" means a land use zone designated in the City of Orillia Zoning By-
law.
832.2.80
Restaurant menu boards - defined
"restaurant menu boards" means temporary menu displays affixed to a window, door or
wall, but shall not include a sandwich board sign.
832.2.81
Roadway - defined
"roadway" means the part of the road allowance that is improved, designed or ordinarily
used for vehicular traffic, but does not include the shoulder, and, where a road
allowance includes two (2) or more separate roadways, the term "roadway" refers to any
one (1) roadway separately, and not to all of the roadways collectively.
832.2.82
Sandwich board sign - defined
"sandwich board sign" means a sign comprised of two (2) sign faces of equal size that is
not affixed to the ground and includes signs commonly known as A-frame or Sidewalk
signs.
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832.16
January 2025
832.2.83
Seasonal business - defined
"seasonal business" means use of land or a building or structure for the sale of
seasonal products such as farm produce and Christmas trees, but does not include sale
of non-perishable products.
832.2.84
Side lot line - defined
"side lot line" means the side property line as defined in the City of Orillia Zoning By-law.
832.2.85
Sight triangle - defined
"sight triangle" means a triangle that is formed by the intersection of the boundaries of
two (2) streets, measured from the actual and projected point of intersection of the
property boundaries abutting the street, a distance of 7.5m (24.6 ft.) along each such
property boundary to two (2) points and joining those two (2) points.
832.2.86
Sign - defined
"sign" means any notice or advertising device including its structure, lighting and
mechanical components.
832.2.87
Sign area - defined
"sign area" means the number of square metres per sign face, including the border and
frame, and where a sign, symbol or logo is not bounded or enclosed within a frame, the
area shall be that of a rectangle, circle or other simple geometrical shape containing all
letters, symbols and devices on the sign. Any sign with two (2) or more sign faces shall
be considered as one (1) sign face should the interior angle of the abutting faces
exceed 90 degrees.
832.2.88
Sign face - defined
"sign face" means the portion of a sign displaying the sign message or content.
832.2.89
Sign permit - defined
"sign permit" means written permission or written authorization from the Designated
Official to erect a sign in accordance with this Chapter.
832.2.90
Soffit sign - defined
"soffit sign" means a sign mounted to the underside of a canopy or soffit.
832.2.91
Street - defined
"street" means any public highway, but does not include a provincial highway.
832.2.92
Street line - defined
"street line" means the dividing line between a property and a street.
832.2.93
Substantially altered - defined
"substantially altered" means to change the location, sign structure, or any one (1) or
more of the external dimensions of a sign, or to become obsolete, or to change the
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832.17
January 2025
business name on an obsolete sign, and for the purpose of clarity, shall not include on a
lawfully erected sign:
(a)
A change in the message to advertise goods or services;
(b)
The re-arrangement of numerals, letters or copy applied directly to the
sign face specifically designed and intended to be periodically re-
arranged;
(c)
Maintenance and repair.
832.2.94
Temporary (sign) - defined
"temporary sign" means a sign that is not permanently displayed and not permanently
affixed to the ground or a building or structure and does not fall within the definition of
mobile, banner or sandwich board sign.
832.2.95
Theatre display case - defined
"theatre display case" means an enclosed case or cabinet designed for the temporary
display of posters or other advertising devices, advertising current or future events or
attractions at the theatre.
832.2.96
Three dimensional - defined
"three dimensional" means individual letters and symbols:
(a)
Raised a minimum of 25.4 millimetres (1 inch) from the sign face, except
that where the width of the sign face is less than 1.5 metres (5 ft.), the
letters or symbols may be raised a minimum of 15.9 millimetres (5/8 inch);
or,
(b)
Recessed or engraved, a minimum of 25.4 millimetres (1 inch) from the
sign face, except that where the width of the sign face is less than 1.5
metres (5 ft.), the letters or symbols may be recessed or engraved a
minimum of 12.7 millimetres (1/2 inch).
832.2.97
Traffic signals - defined
"traffic signals" means a sign, marking or device lawfully placed for the purpose of
regulating or prohibiting traffic.
832.2.98
Vacant property - defined
"vacant property" means a property separately assessed upon which there are no lawful
permanent buildings.
832.2.99
Wall sign - defined
"wall sign" means a sign that is parallel to the building wall to which it is attached and
includes signs painted on the exterior wall of any building.
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832.2.100
Window sign - defined
"window sign" means a sign erected in the interior of a window and must be located on
the storey in which the business is situated.
Article 3
General Provisions
832.3.1
Compliance with this Chapter
No person shall erect or substantially alter, or permit to be erected or substantially
altered, a sign except in compliance with the provisions of this Chapter, the conditions of
any variance granted under this Chapter or any other applicable By-law of the City.
832.3.2
Delegated authority
Delegated authority to administer all or part of this Chapter which includes the signing of
documents to issue or deny a Sign Permit Application or to revoke a Sign Permit, is set
out in Chapter 251 of the City of Orillia Municipal Code - Delegated Authority.
832.3.3
Existing signs
Any sign that was lawfully erected may remain and continue to be used and maintained,
provided that no such sign is substantially altered in any manner unless such alteration
causes the sign to conform in all respects with the applicable provisions of this Chapter.
Each such sign shall be counted as one (1) sign and this provision shall not operate as an
exception to any requirement of this Chapter that may limit the number of signs that are
permitted on any property, building or other structure.
Article 4
Sign Permit
832.4.1
Sign permit - general
No person shall erect or substantially alter, or permit to be erected or substantially
altered, a sign without first having obtained a sign permit.
832.4.2
Compliance with plans
No person shall erect or substantially alter, or permit to be erected or substantially
altered, a sign which is not in accordance with the sign plans or specifications approved
by the Designated Official.
832.4.3
Approval authorities
All applications for a sign permit shall be accompanied by a copy of the approval from any
other approval authority having jurisdiction.
832.4.4
Responsibility and compliance
Neither the granting of a sign permit, nor the approval of the plans and specifications for a
sign, nor inspections made by any person on behalf of the City, shall in any way relieve
the owner of the property or any other person from full responsibility for carrying out work,
and having the work carried out in complete compliance with the requirements of this
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Chapter and any other applicable legislation.
832.4.5
False or misleading information
No person shall submit false or misleading information or documents or make omissions
that may mislead in connection with any application for a sign permit, including detail in
plans and specifications. Any permit issued based on false, incorrect, or misleading
information shall not relieve any person from the responsibility for complying with the
provisions of this Chapter.
832.4.6
Permit expiration
Every permit issued by the City shall expire if the work to erect, or substantially alter the
sign is not completed within 180 days from the date of issuance of the sign permit.
832.4.7
Permitted use of land
A sign permit shall not be issued for a use of land not permitted by the City's Zoning By-
law unless that land use is a legal non-conforming use.
832.4.8
Fees required
A sign permit shall not be issued until all required fees have been submitted.
Article 5
Exempted Signs
832.5.1
Signs exempt from a sign permit - general
The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of a sign permit, but shall
comply with all requirements as set out in Article 6:
Signs painted or permanently affixed flat to an awning or canopy provided such signage
does not exceed 50% of the sign area of an individual awning or canopy.
(a)
Contractor signs provided that such signs are removed upon completion of
the work.
(b)
Directional signs not exceeding 0.7m2 (7.5 sq. ft.) except in the Downtown
Sign Permit Area where the sign shall not exceed 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign
area.
(c)
Drive-through restaurant menu boards.
(d)
Flags bearing the crest, name or insignia of any corporation, government
agency or patriotic, religious, or charitable organization to a maximum
number of five (5) such per lot.
(e)
One (1) home occupation sign not exceeding 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign
area. A home occupation sign shall not be illuminated or have more than
two (2) sign faces. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where a home
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occupation sign is erected in the Downtown Sign Permit Area, a sign
permit shall be obtained and the sign must comply with the Downtown
Orillia Sign Design Criteria.
(f)
Signs identifying a hospital.
(g)
Interior signs.
(h)
Memorial or commemorative signs or tablets denoting the date of erection
of buildings or structures or acknowledging historical events or civic
contributions by local individuals, clubs or organizations.
(i)
Murals which have been approved by Council.
(j)
Signs identifying schools operated by a public school board, a college or
university.
(k)
No trespassing signs or other such signs regulating the use of a property,
not exceeding 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign area.
(l)
Property address signs.
(m)
Public election signs provided such signs shall:
(i)
not be erected within 3 metres (9.84 ft.) of the edge of a roadway,
unless erected on or within a building.
(ii)
not be erected on public property except a municipal road
allowance and provided the sign is not:
(a)
on, or overhanging the roadway or a sidewalk;
(b)
in breach of the set-back requirements described in (i);
(c)
adjacent to any public property including parks;
(d)
where a road allowance includes a sidewalk adjacent to a
roadway, on the portion of the road allowance between the
sidewalk and the roadway;
(e)
where a road allowance includes two (2) or more separate
roadways, on the portion of the road allowance between
each roadway; or
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(f)
erected without first having obtained consent of the owner or
occupant of the property immediately adjacent to where the
sign is intended to be erected.
(iii)
not exceed 2.9m (9.5 ft.) in width and 2.3m (7.5
ft.) in height.
(a)
Despite Section 832.5.1(n)(iii), public
election signs may be erected on a
billboard sign provided such signage
does not exceed a height of 8.0m (26.0
ft.) and a sign area of 20m2 (215.0 sq.
ft.).
(iv)
with regard to municipal election signs only, not
be erected more than sixty (60) days prior to the
election date to which it pertains.
(a)
Despite Section 832.5.1(n)(iv), municipal
election signs may be erected on
campaign offices up to ninety (90) days
prior to the election date to which it
pertains.
(v)
with regard to third party advertisers, be erected by or
on behalf of a registered third party and contain the
following information:
(a)
The name of the registered third party;
(b)
The municipality where the registered third
party is registered; and,
(c)
A telephone number, mailing address, or email
address at which the registered third party may
be contacted.
(vi)
be removed within 48 hours following the election
date, question, by-law, or referendum to which it
pertains.
(n)
Public information signs.
(o)
Signs customarily displayed on gasoline pumps or pump islands.
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(p)
Real estate signs not exceeding 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign area in a
residential zone and 2.0m2 (21.5 sq. ft.) in sign area in other zones. Such
real estate signs shall be removed within fourteen (14) days after the date
of the acceptance of an offer or the lease or rental of the premises.
(q)
Restaurant menu boards no larger than 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.).
(r)
Temporary signs, no larger than 1.5m2 (16.1 sq. ft.), in sign area
advertising a seasonal business to a maximum of three (3) such signs per
lot. Such temporary signs shall not be within 1.5m (5.0 ft.) of the closest
edge of a municipal sidewalk or driveway.
(s)
One (1) non-illuminated temporary sign no larger than 2.2m2 (24 sq. ft.)
and 2.5m (8.2 ft.) in height on a single business property for a maximum
duration of six (6) months. The date (month and year) the sign was
erected shall be displayed in a clearly visible location. Such temporary
signs shall not be within 1.5m (5.0 ft.) of the closest edge of a municipal
sidewalk or driveway.
(t)
Two (2) non-illuminated temporary signs no larger than 2.2m2 (24 sq. ft.)
and 2.5m (8.2 ft.) in height on a multi business property for a maximum
duration of six (6) months. The date (month and year) the sign was
erected shall be displayed in a clearly visible location. Such temporary
signs shall not be within 1.5m (5.0 ft.) of the closest edge of a municipal
sidewalk or driveway.
(u)
Theatre display cases.
(v)
Window sign(s).
(w)
Children at play signs provided such signs shall:
(i)
not exceed one sign per lot or municipal road allowance adjacent
thereto;
(ii)
not be erected within 1 metre (3.28 ft.) of the edge of a roadway;
(iii)
not be erected on public property except a municipal road
allowance and provided the sign is not:
(a)
on, or overhanging the roadway or a sidewalk;
(b)
in breach of the set-back requirements described in (ii);
(c)
adjacent to any public property including parks;
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(d)
where a road allowance includes a sidewalk adjacent to a
roadway, on the portion of the road allowance between the
sidewalk and the roadway;
(e)
where a road allowance includes two (2) or more separate
roadways, on the portion of the road allowance between
each roadway; or
(f)
erected without first having obtained consent of the owner or
occupant of the property immediately adjacent to where the
sign is intended to be erected.
(iv)
not exceed 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign area;
(v)
not display any commercial advertising;
(vi)
not indicate or suggest in any manner a maximum
speed;
(vii)
only be displayed from April 15th to November 15th of
any calendar year.
(x)
One non-illuminated mobile sign no larger than 4.5m2 (48.4 sq. ft.) in sign
area, and 2.5m (8.2 ft.) in height advertising the Images Studio Tour on
the property located at 301 Forest Avenue North. Such mobile sign shall
not be erected more than fourteen (14) days before the event and shall be
removed no later than 24 hours following the event. Such mobile sign shall
also not be erected within:
(i) 1.0m (3.3 ft.) of a driveway line
(ii) 1.5m (4.9 ft.) of side lot line; and
(iii) 1.5m (4.9 ft.) of the front lot line.
832.5.2
Signs exempt from a sign permit - permitted on public property
(a)
The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of a sign
permit, and shall be permitted on public property:
(i)
Signs erected by or on behalf of the City, the Provincial or
Federal Government.
(ii)
Signs erected in parks that are approved by the General
Manager of Corporate Services and City Solicitor, or
designate.
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(iii)
Business directory sign(s) erected by or on behalf of the
Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA)
Board within City owned or leased parking lots located in the
downtown area that are approved by the General Manager
of Development Services and Engineering or designate and
provided the sign does not exceed 1.1 square meters (12
square feet) in sign area.
(b)
The following signs shall be exempt from the requirements of a sign
permit, and shall be permitted on public property, but shall comply with all
requirements as set out in Article 6:
(i)
Banner signs if advertising a special event sponsored by the
City. A banner sign shall not be erected more than thirty
(30) days prior to the event and shall be removed no later
than 24 hours following the event. Where a banner sign is
located across a roadway, City policy 2.6.3.1 shall apply.
(ii)
Garage or yard sale signs provided that such signs are
removed no later than 24 hours following the event.
(iii)
Open house directional signs. Such signs are to be removed
within 24 hours of the said event.
(iv)
Poster signs not exceeding 0.12m2 (1.3 sq. ft.) in sign area
provided that such signs are removed within 24 hours after
the occurrence of the event advertised. Such signs shall not
be displayed for a period exceeding a total of twenty-one
(21) days. This provision shall not apply to poster signs
located in the Downtown Sign Permit Area (DSPA) as per
Section 832.6.3(e).
(v)
Public information signs approved by the General Manager
of Development Services and Engineering or designate.
(vi)
Temporary signs no larger than 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign
area advertising special events of a registered charitable
organization or non-profit organization, public service group
or City approved special event. Such temporary signs shall
not be erected more than eight (8) days before the event and
shall be removed no later than 24 hours following the event.
(vii)
A maximum of four (4) Orchard Point Corporation
development directional signs no larger than 1.6 square
meters (17.5 square feet) in sign face area may be located
within the area illustrated on Schedule "B".
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(viii)
Temporary signs no larger than 0.5m2 (5.4 sq. ft.) in sign
area advertising the Images Studio Tour. Such temporary
signs shall not be erected more than eight (8) days before
the event and shall be removed no later than 24 hours
following the event.
832.5.3
Signs exempt from a sign permit - Downtown Sign Permit Area
Notwithstanding Section 832.5.1 and 832.5.2, the following signs shall be exempt from
the requirements of a sign permit and the Downtown Orillia Sign Design Criteria in the
Downtown Sign Permit Area, but shall comply with all requirements set out in Article 6:
(a)
A window sign(s) and may include one (1) internally illuminated sign,
electronic illumination sign, or electronic variable message centre sign, per
business façade adjacent to a street, and one (1) internally illuminated sign
stating "OPEN" per business with ground level pedestrian access from a
parking lot, provided it does not exceed .3m2 (3.2 sq. ft.) in sign area. Any
sign listed in Section 832.5.3(a) may flash despite Section 832.6.2(a).
(b)
A banner sign may be erected wholly inside the business and displayed as
a window sign.
(c)
Any sign listed in Section 832.5.1 and 832.5.2 except those signs
described in Section 832.5.1(a), and Section 832.5.1(f).
832.5.4
Deemed prohibited
Where a sign described in Article 5 does not meet the exemption requirements, it shall
be deemed to be prohibited.
Article 6
Prohibitions
832.6.1
Removal or deface
No person shall pull down or deface a sign which has been lawfully erected.
832.6.2
Prohibited signs - general
No person shall erect or permit to be erected, a sign:
(a)
That is flashing.
(b)
That is lewd or indecent in any word, picture, symbol or the like.
(c)
With a light source that is not shielded and which is visible from off the
property.
(d)
That is moving.
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(e)
That creates noise.
(f)
That is obsolete.
(g)
That advertises a business located, or product sold at another property
except approved billboard signs or signs set out in Section 832.5.2.
(h)
Which make use of the words "STOP", "LOOK", "ONE WAY", "DANGER",
"YIELD" or any similar words, phrases, symbols, lights or characters in such
a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse traffic.
(i)
That in any manner constitutes a public safety hazard or impedes
pedestrian traffic.
(j)
That projects over a sidewalk or other pedestrian sidewalk or walkway less
than 2.4m (7.9 ft.) above the surface of such sidewalk or walkway.
(k)
That is not expressly permitted by this Chapter.
832.6.3
Prohibited signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
In addition to the prohibitions set out in Section 832.6.1 and 832.6.2, no person shall
erect or permit to be erected in the Downtown Sign Permit Area:
(a)
A sign that does not comply with the Downtown Orillia Sign Design
Criteria, except as permitted in Section 832.5.3 or 832.14.2(a).
(b)
A banner or flag, except those intended to promote special events or
attractions approved by the Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area
(DOBIA) Board or as permitted in Section 832.5.2(a)(i) and 832.5.3(b).
(c)
Electronic illumination signs and electronic variable message centres,
except as permitted in Section 832.5.3(a).
(d)
Internally illuminated and / or back lit signs unless the lettering, symbols,
or numbers are individually lit, or as permitted in Section 832.5.3(a).
(e)
Poster signs located on public property.
(f)
Readograph signs.
(g)
Temporary signs.
832.6.4
Prohibited sign locations - general
No person shall erect or permit to be erected a sign:
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(a)
On or over public property unless Council has granted appropriate
permission or is specifically provided in Section 832.5.2 and 832.13.1(c).
(b)
On public property that obscures any other sign on such property or creates
a hazard due to projecting fasteners attaching same to such property, its
orientation to automobile traffic or obstruction of sight lines for vehicles.
(c)
On public property that is within 10m (30 ft.) of an intersection.
(d)
In a required parking space.
(e)
Within a sight triangle, unless the sign face has a minimum clearance of
2.4m (8 ft.) excluding the required structural support, or is attached to a
wall, and complies with 832.6.4(f) which obstructs the vision of vehicle
drivers or pedestrians entering or exiting a property or obstructs or detracts
from the visibility or effectiveness of any traffic signal on public property.
(f)
Entirely or in part on the roof of a building or structure other than an
inflatable sign, provided that such inflatable sign does not overhang from
any portion of the roof on which it is erected, does not exceed 6.0m (20 ft.)
in height and is not displayed for more than twenty-one (21) consecutive
days.
(g)
On a utility pole.
(h)
That obstructs or impedes any required fire escape, fire exit, door, window,
scuttle, skylight, flue or air intake or exhaust or so as to prevent or impede
free access of emergency services to any part of the building.
(i)
That is painted on, attached to or supported by a tree, garbage can, planter
or telephone booth.
(j)
That is attached, affixed or displayed on a vehicle or trailer which is
parked or located for the primary purpose of displaying said sign or
advertisement.
Article 7
Banner Signs
832.7.1
Banner signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to banner signs except those signs described in Section 832.5.2(b)(i), Section
832.5.3(b) and Section 832.6.3(b):
(a)
No banner sign shall be located on a property for more than three (3) -
30-day periods, which may be consecutive, in any calendar year.
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(b)
A banner sign shall not exceed a sign area of 6.0m2 (64.6 sq. ft.).
Article 8
Billboard Signs
832.8.1
Billboard signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to billboard signs:
(a)
Billboard signs are only permitted on lands zoned Commercial or
Industrial. Notwithstanding the foregoing, billboard signs shall be
prohibited in all General Commercial (C1) zones.
(b)
Billboard signs shall not exceed a height of 8.0m (26.0 ft.) and a sign area
of 20m2 (215.0 sq. ft.).
(c)
No billboard sign shall be erected closer than 6.0m (20.0 ft.) to the lot line
abutting a street.
(d)
No billboard sign shall be located at a distance of less than 10m (33.0 ft.)
from a common lot boundary with an adjacent lot.
(e)
No billboard sign shall be erected closer than 500m (1640 ft.) to another
billboard sign.
(f)
No billboard sign shall be erected closer than 200m (656 ft.) to any lands
zoned Residential.
(g)
Not more than one (1) billboard sign shall be permitted on any one (1) lot.
(h)
A back-to-back billboard sign shall be deemed to be one (1) billboard sign.
(i)
An electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message centre is
permitted on a billboard sign provided:
(i)
The sign is located on a property zoned Industrial or Commercial.
(ii)
A maximum of 50% of the sign area may be used for the purposes
of an electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre.
(iii)
A maximum of one (1) billboard sign containing an electronic
illumination sign or electronic variable message centre may be
permitted per lot.
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(iv)
When located within 120m (394 ft.) of a property zoned Residential,
Open Space, Rural or Environmental Protection in the Zoning By-
law, the electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre must be turned off between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00
a.m.
(v)
The minimum display time for an electronic illumination sign or
electronic variable message centre without movement or change in
colour shall be five (5) seconds.
Article 9
Development Signs
832.9.1
Development signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following provisions shall apply to
development signs:
(a)
A development sign shall only be located within the development being
advertised.
(b)
A development sign shall only advertise the development in which it is
located and not the developer's or landowner's business in general.
(c)
The maximum sign area of a development sign shall not exceed 0.3m2
(3.3 sq. ft.) per metre of lot frontage to a maximum of 15m2 (161.4 sq. ft.).
(d) No development sign shall exceed 7.5m (24.6 ft.) in height.
(e) No development sign shall be erected within:
(i)
1.0m (3.3 ft.) of a driveway line
(ii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of a side lot line
(iii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of the front lot line.
(f)
Where a lot with a frontage greater than 150m (492 ft.) fronts onto a single
road, one (1) additional development sign may be erected provided the
two (2) signs are no closer to each other than 45m (148 ft.).
(g)
Where a lot fronts onto more than one street, one (1) additional
development sign may be erected for each such street frontage.
(h)
The sign area of a development sign shall not exceed 15m2 (162 sq. ft.)
per side.
(i)
A development sign shall not be internally illuminated.
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(j)
A development sign shall not have more than two (2) sides.
Article 10
Ground Signs
832.10.1
Ground signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to ground signs:
(a)
No ground sign shall be erected within:
(i)
1.0m (3.3 ft.) of a driveway line
(ii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of a side lot line
(iii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of the front lot line.
(b)
The maximum sign area of a ground sign shall not exceed 0.3m2 (3.2 sq.
ft.) per metre of lot frontage to a maximum of 15m2 (161.4 sq. ft.).
(c)
No ground sign shall exceed 7.5m (24.6 ft.) in height.
(d)
On any lot, only one (1) ground sign will be permitted except where a lot
falls into one (1) of the following categories:
(i)
Where a lot with a frontage greater than 150m (492 ft.) fronts onto a
single street, one (1) additional ground sign may be erected
provided that no ground sign is located within 45m (148 ft.) of
another ground sign on the same lot.
(ii)
Where a lot fronts onto more than one (1) street, one (1) additional
ground sign may be erected for each such street frontage.
(iii)
One (1) additional ground sign for each main building may be
erected on a lot having more than one (1) main building provided
that no ground sign shall be located within 45m (148 ft.) of another
ground sign on the same lot.
(e)
An electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message centre is
permitted on a ground sign provided:
(i)
The sign is located on a property zoned Industrial or Commercial.
(ii)
A maximum of 50% of the sign area may be used for the purposes
of an electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre.
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(iii)
A maximum of one (1) ground sign containing an electronic
illumination sign or electronic variable message centre may be
permitted per lot.
(iv)
When located within 120m (394 ft.) of a property zoned Residential,
Open Space, Rural or Environmental Protection in the Zoning By-
law, the electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre must be turned off between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00
a.m.
(v)
The minimum display time for an electronic illumination sign or
electronic variable message centre without movement or change in
colour shall be five (5) seconds.
832.10.2
Ground signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
(a)
In addition to Section 832.10.1, a ground sign shall comply with the
following additional provisions when erected in the Downtown Sign Permit
Area:
(i)
No ground sign shall exceed 2.0m2 (21.5 sq. ft.) in sign area.
(ii)
No ground sign shall exceed 5.0m (16.4 ft.) in height.
(b)
Existing non-complying ground signs as identified in Schedule "C" to this
Chapter, are exempt from set-back, maximum height and sign face area
requirements. For greater certainty, this provision does not apply to a sign
that is on public property without Council approval.
Article 11
Hoarding Signs
832.11.1
Hoarding signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to hoarding signs:
(a)
Hoarding signs shall not extend horizontally or vertically beyond the
dimensions of the hoarding panels.
(b)
Hoarding signs shall not be illuminated.
(c)
Hoarding signage shall not be placed on more than 50% of the continuous
linear horizontal hoarding along a street frontage.
(d)
Hoarding signage shall not exceed 2.5m (8.2 ft.) in height.
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(e)
No hoarding signage shall be erected until a building or demolition permit
has been obtained for the construction, repair or demolition project.
(f)
All hoarding and associated signage shall be removed upon substantial
completion of the project.
Article 12
Mobile Signs
832.12.1
Mobile signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to mobile signs:
(a)
No more than one (1) mobile sign shall be erected on a single-business
property for more than three (3) - 30-day periods, which may be
consecutive within any calendar year.
(b)
No more than three (3) mobile signs shall be erected on a multi-business
property at any one (1) time. Each premise shall be permitted three (3) -
30-day periods, which may be consecutive within any calendar year.
(c)
No mobile sign shall be illuminated.
(d)
Mobile signs shall only be permitted in Commercial, Industrial or
Institutional Zones.
(e)
A mobile sign shall not have more than two (2) sides.
(f)
A mobile sign shall not exceed 4.5m2 (48.4 sq. ft.) in sign area, and 2.5m
(8.2 ft.) in height.
(g)
No mobile sign shall be erected within:
(i)
1.0m (3.3 ft.) of a driveway line
(ii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of side lot line
(iii)
1.5m (4.9 ft.) of the front lot line.
832.12.2
Mobile signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
(a)
Notwithstanding Section 832.12.1, a mobile sign is prohibited to be
erected in the Downtown Sign Permit Area.
Article 13
Projecting Signs
832.13.1
Projecting signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
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apply to projecting signs:
(a)
No portion of a projecting sign shall be less than 2.4m (7.9 ft.) above the
finished grade immediately below such sign.
(b)
No projecting sign shall exceed 1.4m2 (15.0 sq. ft.) in sign area.
(c)
A projecting sign face shall not overhang public property by more than
1.5m (5.0 ft.) and the sign structure by more than 2.0m (6.6 ft.).
Article 14
Sandwich Board Signs
832.14.1
Sandwich board signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to sandwich board signs:
(a)
A single sandwich board sign may only be located on private property in
front of a business premise and no further than 15m (50 ft.) from the
business advertised unless otherwise provided for herein.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, a single Sandwich Board Sign may be
located on public property immediately in front of a business premise
where such premise is located less than 2.0m (6.6 ft.) from the front lot
line or at the entrance to a laneway if such premise has its main
pedestrian entrance from such laneway.
(b)
A Sandwich Board Sign shall not exceed 1.0m2 (10.8 sq. ft.) in sign area
per sign face.
(c)
A Sandwich Board Sign shall not interfere with normal pedestrian traffic on
public sidewalks nor shall it interfere with on-street vehicle parking spaces.
(d)
A sandwich board sign shall only be located on public property during
normal business hours of the premises.
832.14.2
Sandwich board signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
In addition to the provisions set out in 832.14.1, a sandwich board sign shall comply
with the following provisions when erected in the Downtown Sign Permit Area:
(a)
A sandwich board sign shall not be larger than 0.6m2 (6.5 sq. ft.) per sign
face;
(b)
A sandwich board sign shall not be displayed on public property at any
time between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. of any day from
November 15th of one year to April 15th of the following year.
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Article 15
Soffit Signs
832.15.1
Soffit signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to soffit signs:
(a)
No portion of any soffit sign shall be less than 2.4m (7.9 ft.) above the
finished grade.
(b)
No soffit sign shall be located above the first storey of any building.
(c)
No soffit sign shall be closer than 0.2m (0.7 ft.) from the outer edge of the
soffit upon which it is mounted.
(d)
No soffit sign shall have a vertical dimension greater than 0.5m (1.6 ft.) or
have a horizontal dimension greater than 2.0m (6.5 ft.).
(e)
No soffit sign shall exceed 1.0m2 (10.8 sq. ft.) in sign area.
Article 16
Wall Signs
832.16.1
Wall signs - regulations
In addition to the provisions set out in Article 6, the following additional provisions shall
apply to wall signs:
(a)
No wall sign shall extend above the top or horizontal extremities of the
wall upon which it is placed.
(b)
The area of wall signs shall not exceed 1.25m2 (13.5 sq. ft.) of sign area
per linear horizontal metre of building wall in which the business is
located.
(d)
An electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message centre is
permitted on a wall sign provided:
(i)
The sign is located on a property zoned Industrial or Commercial.
(ii)
A maximum of 50% of the sign area may be used for the purposes
of an electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre.
(iii)
A maximum of one (1) ground sign containing an electronic
illumination sign or electronic variable message centre may be
permitted per lot.
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(iv)
When located within 120m (394 ft.) of a property zoned Residential,
Open Space, Rural or Environmental Protection in the Zoning By-
law, the electronic illumination sign or electronic variable message
centre must be turned off between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00
a.m.
(v)
The minimum display time for an electronic illumination sign or
electronic variable message centre without movement or change in
colour shall be five (5) seconds.
832.16.2
Wall signs - Downtown Sign Permit Area
In addition to the provisions set out in Section 832.16.1, a wall sign shall comply with
the following provision when erected in the Downtown Sign Permit Area:
(a)
Any single wall sign, or combination of wall signs on any one wall, shall
not exceed 15m2 (161.4 sq. ft.) of sign area.
Article 17
Sign Variance Process
832.17.1
Sign variance
(a)
An applicant for a sign permit may apply to the City's Development
Services and Engineering Department for a variance from certain
requirements of this Chapter. The application shall be accompanied by
payment of the required fee as set out in Chapter 450 of the Municipal
Code - User Fees - Development Services and Engineering.
(b)
Variance applications are heard by the City's Committee of Adjustment
who may authorize minor variances from the provisions of this Chapter if
in the opinion of the Committee, the general purpose and intent of the
Chapter is maintained.
Article 18
Enforcement
832.18.1
Enforcement
A Municipal By-law Enforcement Officer or Police Officer is hereby vested with the
authority of enforcing the provisions of this Chapter.
832.18.2
Entry and inspection
An Officer may, at all reasonable times, enter on land including buildings and structures
other than a dwelling unit, for the purpose of carrying out an inspection to determine
compliance with this Chapter.
832.18.3
Removal of unlawful signs on or over City property
The City, by its employees, officers or agents, may remove and dispose of any sign
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erected on, or over City property in contravention of the provisions of this Chapter without
notification to the owner of the sign.
832.18.4
Removal of unlawful signs from private property
(a)
Where a sign is erected or substantially altered on private property in
contravention of the provisions of this Chapter, the City shall send a notice
by personal service or regular post to the owner of the property requiring
the owner to:
(i)
correct the contravention so that the sign complies with the
provisions of this Chapter; or
(ii)
remove the sign not later than the time specified in the notice.
(b)
If the notice is not complied with, the City, by its employees, officers or
agents, may enter upon the property of the owner without further notice
and remove such sign immediately. Such removal is to be at the expense
of the owner of the property and may be collected in the same manner as
property taxes.
832.18.5
Storage and disposal
(a)
Where a sign has been removed by the City pursuant to Section 832.18.4,
the City shall send a notice by personal service or regular post or
electronic transmission to the owner of the property on which the sign was
located advising:
(i)
that the sign will be stored and disposed of by the City unless the
sign is retrieved within thirty (30) days of the date that such notice
is sent by personal service or by regular post or electronic
transmission;
(ii)
that no retrieval of the sign may be made without payment of the
City's cost of removal and a care and storage fee of $300.00.
(b)
If the sign is not retrieved within the thirty (30) day period, then the sign
may be immediately destroyed or otherwise disposed of by the City
without further notice or compensation.
(c)
Where a sign has been removed by the City pursuant to Section 832.18.3,
no retrieval of the sign may be made without payment of either a care and
storage fee of $100.00, or the actual cost of removing the sign, whichever
is greater. Where such sign has been stored by the City for a period of
thirty (30) days and has not been retrieved, the sign may be immediately
destroyed or otherwise disposed of by the City.
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832.18.6
Hinder or Obstruct
No person shall hinder or obstruct, or attempt to hinder or obstruct, any Officer exercising
a power or performing a duty under this Chapter, or any person lawfully acting in aid of
such an Officer. Without limiting the generality of the meaning of "hinder" or "obstruct", a
person shall be deemed to have obstructed or hindered an Officer in the execution of their
duties if he or she:
(a)
provides false information to an Officer; or
(b)
is alleged on reasonable and probable grounds to have contravened any of
the provisions of this Chapter and fails to identify themselves to an Officer
upon request.
832.18.7
Revocation of Permit
The Designated Official may revoke a sign permit under any of the following
circumstances:
(a)
where the sign does not conform to this Chapter;
(b)
where the sign does not conform to any regulation, law or requirement of
any governmental authority having jurisdiction in the area where the sign
is situated;
(c)
where the permit has been issued either in error or due to false or
misleading statements or undertakings in the application for permit; or
(d)
where the sign erected does not conform with the application, plans or
specifications upon which the permit was issued.
(e)
where a sign permit is revoked, the sign(s) shall be removed upon written
request to do so.
832.18.8
Penalties
(a)
Any person who contravenes any of the provisions of this Chapter is guilty
of an offence and upon conviction is liable to a fine or penalty as provided
for in the Provincial Offences Act.
(b)
Where a section of this Chapter has been contravened, a director or officer
of a corporation who knowingly concurs in the contravention is guilty of an
offence.
(c)
Upon conviction, in addition to any other remedy and to any penalty
imposed by this Chapter, the court in which the conviction has been entered
and any court of competent jurisdiction thereafter may make an order
prohibiting the continuation or repetition of the offence by the person
convicted.
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832.18.9
Interpretation
(a)
Where the proximity of a sign to a feature (including another sign) is
specified, the distance shall be the shortest distance separating any parts
of the sign and the feature specified.
(b)
In this Chapter, unless the contrary intention is indicated, words used in
the singular shall include the plural and words used in the male gender
shall include the female gender and a corporation or vice versa where
applicable.
(c)
All schedules to this Chapter shall form part of this Chapter.
832.18.10
Conflict - Sign Chapter - prevails
Where there is a conflict or a contradiction between this Chapter and any other by-law
of the City, the provisions of this Chapter shall prevail.
832.18.11
Validity and severability
Every provision of this Chapter is declared severable from the remainder and if any
provision of this Chapter shall be declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction,
such declaration shall not affect the validity of the remainder.
832.18.12
Rebuttable presumption - identification
In a prosecution for a contravention of this Chapter, evidence of identification shall be
presumed to be correct and accurate, unless rebutted by evidence to the contrary.
Repealed and Replaced: By-law 2010-147, 27 September 2010.
By-law Amendments: By-law 2011-13, 14 February 2011; By-law 2012-5, 16 January
2012; By-law 2013-21, 25 February 2013, By-law 2013-137, 25 November 2013; By-law
2014-86, 14 August 2014; By-law 2015-15, 9 March 2015; By-law 2016-98, 19
September 2016; By-law 2017-14, 13 February 2017; By-law 2017-50, 15 May 2017; By-
law 2017-121, 11 December 2017; By-law 2018-38, 14 May 2018; By-law 2018-52, 4
June 2018; By-law 2019-117, 12 December 2019; By-law 2020-48, 25 May 2020; By-law
2020-92, 9 November 2020; By-law 2022-97, 19 September 2022; By-law 2023-095, 25
September 2023; By-law 2024-051, 22 April 2024, By-law 2025-003, 13 January 2025.
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Schedule "A" - Boundary of Downtown Sign Permit Area
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Schedule "B" - Permitted Sign Location for Orchard Point Corporation
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Schedule "C" - Existing Non-Complying Ground Signs Within the DSPA
-
35 Front Street South
-
89 Colborne Street East
-
25 Colborne Street East
-
2 West Street South
-
72 Colborne Street West
-
61 Colborne Street West
-
83 Mississaga Street West
-
2 Front Street North (2 signs)
-
201 Mississaga Street East
-
180 Mississaga Street East
-
16 Front Street North
-
70 Front Street North
-
97 Coldwater Street
-
107 Neywash Street
-
83 Colborne Street East