Burnaby Billboard Placement & Permit Guide

In Burnaby, British Columbia, outdoor billboard placement is governed by municipal bylaws and zoning rules that balance advertising needs with public safety, sightlines, and neighbourhood character. This guide explains where billboards are generally permitted, how to check zoning and sign regulations, the permit application steps, inspection and enforcement pathways, and typical issues applicants face. Use the official municipal sign and zoning pages to confirm current standards and to obtain applications before installing or modifying any outdoor advertising structure. Follow the local process to reduce delays and avoid enforcement actions.

Where Billboards Can Be Located

Placement depends on zoning designation, setback rules, and sign type restrictions. Commercial and industrial zones commonly permit larger billboard structures, while residential zones usually prohibit them or limit size and location. Check property zoning and sign-specific rules before planning a billboard.

• Confirm the parcel zoning and allowable uses with the City of Burnaby planning maps and the Zoning Bylaw Zoning Bylaw 1965^[2].
• Review sign type definitions and dimensional limits on the City sign and advertising page Signs and Advertising^[1].
• Check proximity to roadways, sightlines, and utility corridors; major arterials and commercial corridors often host billboards subject to stricter rules.

Permits and Approval Process

Most permanent billboards require a sign permit and may need a development permit or building permit depending on size, structure, and electrical components. The process generally includes submitting plans, drawings, structural details, and an application fee. Municipal review can include planning, building, and engineering referrals.

• Submit a sign permit application with site plan, elevations, and structural certification to the Building Division.
• Pay applicable permit and inspection fees as required by the City fee schedule.
• Coordinate any required traffic or sightline reviews if the billboard is near a highway or intersection.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules in Burnaby is handled by the Citys Bylaw Enforcement and Building Divisions. Penalties and enforcement measures can include fines, removal orders, stop-work orders, and court proceedings. Specific fine amounts and escalation details are set out in the applicable bylaws and enforcement schedules where published.

• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the applicable bylaw or enforcement notice for exact figures.
• Escalation: first and repeat offence escalation ranges are not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or alter signs, stop-work orders, seizure of unlawful signs, and court action are used.
• Enforcer: City of Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement and Building Inspectors handle inspections and enforcement; complaints and inspections are initiated via the Citys contact channels.
• Appeals and reviews: appeal routes depend on the specific bylaw or permit decision; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes sign permit application requirements and related checklists; where a specific form exists, use the official sign permit application packet. If no form is published for a particular application type, the City accepts detailed drawings and a written application.

• Sign permit application: see the City sign and advertising page for application steps and submission method Signs and Advertising^[1].
• Fees: specific permit fees and any development application fees are listed on the City fee schedules; if not listed on the sign page, fees are not specified on the cited page.
• Submission: usually online or at the Building Division counter per the Citys application process.

How-To

1. Confirm the property zoning and permitted sign types with the City zoning maps and Zoning Bylaw.
2. Prepare a sign permit application with site plan, structural drawings, and any illumination details.
3. Submit the application to the Building Division and pay required fees.
4. Respond to referrals and inspections; obtain building and electrical permits if required.
5. Schedule final inspection and retain permits and approvals on site.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a billboard in Burnaby?

Yes, most permanent billboards require a sign permit and possibly building or development permits depending on size and structure; check the City sign page for requirements.^[1]

Where can I place a billboard near highways or major roads?

Billboard placement near highways depends on zoning and sightline restrictions; consult the Zoning Bylaw and coordinate with engineering reviews for traffic impacts.^[2]

What happens if I install an unpermitted sign?

Bylaw Enforcement can issue removal orders, fines, and stop-work orders; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page.

Key Takeaways

• Always verify zoning and sign rules before designing a billboard.
• Most permanent signs need a sign permit and possibly building or electrical permits.
• Enforcement can include removal orders and fines; act quickly on notices.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of Burnaby  Signs and Advertising
• City of Burnaby  Bylaws
• City of Burnaby  Building and Renovating
• City of Burnaby  Contact Us

1. [1] City of Burnaby  Signs and Advertising - permit and application information
2. [2] City of Burnaby  Zoning Bylaw 1965 - zoning definitions and regulations