Report Illegal Signs to Burnaby Bylaw Services

Signs and Advertising British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

Burnaby, British Columbia residents can report illegal or unsafe signs to the City’s Bylaw Services for investigation and enforcement. This guide explains what constitutes an illegal sign, how enforcement works, who to contact, and the practical steps to report, appeal, or apply for a permit.

What is an illegal sign

Illegal signs include unauthorized fixed or temporary advertising, signs placed on public property, signs that obstruct sightlines or sidewalks, and signs that lack a required permit or approval under Burnaby bylaws.

How to report an illegal sign

To report a sign, gather a clear photo, the exact location (address or nearest intersection), and the date/time observed. Submit these details to Bylaw Services using the City of Burnaby online complaint form or by phone; include photos when possible.

Report a bylaw complaint[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Bylaw enforcement for signs in Burnaby is carried out by the City’s Bylaw Services (By-law Enforcement). The controlling instruments are the City of Burnaby bylaws and any specific sign or zoning bylaws applicable to the property; specific bylaw numbers or consolidated sign bylaw references should be confirmed on the City of Burnaby bylaws pages.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or rectify signs, seizure or impoundment of unauthorised movable signs, and court action may be used; specifics are not fully itemized on the cited page.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Bylaw Services (By-law Enforcement) investigates complaints; use the City complaint form or contact the department directly for inspections and follow-up.
  • Appeals and review: the cited City pages do not specify exact appeal time limits or procedures for sign enforcement decisions; contact Bylaw Services for appeal steps and time frames.
  • Defences and discretion: permits, variances, or temporary authorizations may exempt certain signs; whether a "reasonable excuse" defence applies is not specified on the cited page.
If you receive a removal order act quickly and contact Bylaw Services to ask about appeal timelines.

Applications & Forms

Sign permits or approvals may be required for fixed or illuminated signs; the City publishes permit and application pages explaining requirements and where to submit applications. If no specific sign permit form is published on the cited page, contact Planning or Building for the current application process.

Common violations

  • Signs on public property or city boulevards without permission.
  • Signs obstructing sidewalks, intersections, or visibility for drivers or pedestrians.
  • Signs installed without a required permit or beyond approved size/location.

Action steps

  • Document the sign with photos and exact location details.
  • Submit a complaint via the City of Burnaby online form or call Bylaw Services to report the issue.[1]
  • If the sign is yours, apply for the appropriate sign permit or seek a variance through Planning/Building.

FAQ

Who enforces sign rules in Burnaby?
Bylaw Services (By-law Enforcement) enforces sign-related bylaws and investigates public complaints.
What information should I include when reporting a sign?
Include the exact location, clear photos, date/time, and any identifying details like business name or vehicle registration if applicable.
Can I appeal a removal order?
Appeal procedures and time limits are not specified on the cited page; contact Bylaw Services promptly to learn the applicable appeal or review process.

How-To

  1. Take clear photos of the sign showing location and any obstructions.
  2. Record the address or nearest intersection and the date/time observed.
  3. Submit the information via the City of Burnaby online complaint form or call Bylaw Services.[1]
  4. Keep copies of your submission and any correspondence; follow up if no response within a reasonable time.

Key Takeaways

  • Report illegal signs to Bylaw Services with photos and exact location.
  • Permits may be required for many sign types; check Planning/Building rules before installing.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Report a bylaw complaint

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