Sandwich Board Permits in Calgary - Steps & Costs

Signs and Advertising Alberta 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Alberta

Calgary, Alberta businesses that place sandwich boards (also called A-boards or sidewalk signs) on public sidewalks must follow city rules to avoid fines and removal. This guide explains which City of Calgary departments enforce sidewalk sign and encroachment rules, the typical steps to apply or seek permission, enforcement and appeal routes, and practical compliance tips for retailers, restaurants and service providers operating in Calgary.

What is regulated

Sidewalk signs sit partly or wholly on public property and are often treated as encroachments or subject to business licensing rules. The City regulates location, size, placement, sightlines and safety to maintain pedestrian access and accessibility standards. If a sign blocks the sidewalk, limits sightlines at intersections, or violates a placement requirement it may be ordered removed.

Always check with the City before placing a sign on public property.

Who enforces sandwich board rules

Enforcement is typically handled by the City of Calgary's bylaw enforcement teams and the roads/encroachments office when signs occupy public right-of-way. Complaints may be processed through the City’s bylaw complaint intake and roads/encroachment permit teams.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City may issue orders, fines, or remove non-compliant signs. Exact fine amounts and daily penalties are not specified on the cited page; see the City links in Resources for current figures. Where the City issues an order it may set a compliance deadline and may remove the sign if the owner does not comply.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first offences, repeat offences and continuing offences are handled by progressively stronger notices and possible removal; specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal of sign, compliance orders, and potential court proceedings if orders are not followed.
  • Enforcer: City of Calgary Bylaw Enforcement and Roads/Encroachments units; complaints filed through the City complaint intake or 311 channels.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes depend on the order type—follow instructions on the enforcement notice; time limits for appeals are provided on the notice or the City enforcement page and are not specified on the cited page.
If you receive an order, act quickly to avoid escalation and removal fees.

Applications & Forms

The City commonly uses encroachment licences or a sidewalk sign permit process for signs on public property; where a formal application form exists it is available from the City’s encroachment or business licensing pages. Fees, application names or form numbers are not specified on the cited page.

Compliance steps for businesses

  • Confirm whether your sign will occupy public property or private property and which permit applies.
  • Review City dimensions, placement and clearance requirements to keep pedestrian routes and sightlines clear.
  • Apply for an encroachment licence or sidewalk sign permit if required and pay applicable fees.
  • Display the approved permit or licence as instructed and maintain sign condition and placement.
  • If you receive a notice, follow the compliance instructions and use the contact details on the notice to request review or appeal within the stated time limit.
Document your application and any correspondence to speed resolution of disputes.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a sandwich board in Calgary?
It depends on whether the sign occupies public property; encroachment licences or permits may be required for signs on sidewalks, and business licence rules may also apply.
What if someone complains about my sign?
The City’s bylaw enforcement or roads team will investigate and may issue an order; follow the order instructions and contact the issuing office to appeal if applicable.
How much does a permit cost?
Fees vary by permit type and are not specified on the cited page; check the City’s encroachment or licensing pages for current fees.

How-To

  1. Determine if your intended sign placement is on public property (sidewalk) or private property.
  2. Check the City of Calgary encroachment and business licence pages for sidewalk sign rules and forms.
  3. Complete the encroachment licence or sidewalk sign permit application and include required drawings/photos showing placement and clearances.
  4. Pay the application fee as specified on the City page and retain proof of payment.
  5. Place the sign according to approved dimensions and keep records of the approval on site.
  6. If you receive an order, follow the compliance steps or submit an appeal/review within the time limit stated on the notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Sidewalk signs may require an encroachment licence or permit when placed on public property.
  • Apply before placing a sign to avoid removal, fees, or enforcement orders.
  • Contact City bylaw or roads/encroachment teams for questions or to appeal enforcement decisions.

Help and Support / Resources

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