London nonprofit sign bylaw for fundraisers

Signs and Advertising Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

This guide explains how London, Ontario regulates signage for nonprofit and charity fundraisers. It covers where temporary signs may be placed, permit requirements, common restrictions for size and location, and practical steps to get approval or respond to complaints. Use this page to prepare event signage, roadside posters, banners and sandwich boards so your fundraiser complies with city rules and avoids enforcement action. For full technical specifications and exemptions, always check the City of London signs and advertising guidance linked below. City of London Signs & Advertising[1]

Temporary signs often need to follow both zoning and sign-size rules.

Overview

London treats fundraiser signage as temporary or special-event signage in most cases. Typical controls address:

  • Time limits and allowable display periods for temporary signs.
  • Permit or notice requirements for some sign types and locations.
  • Prohibitions on placing signs on public property, obstructing sightlines, or attaching to utility poles.
  • Size, height and illumination limits that vary by road type and zoning.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of London By-law Enforcement team; exact monetary penalties for sign violations are not always listed on the general guidance page and must be confirmed in the specific bylaw or provincial offence schedule. By-law Enforcement[2]

If a sign is on city property it may be removed without notice.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders and seizure of non-compliant signs are referenced in enforcement guidance or bylaw provisions where applicable.
  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement division; complaints accepted via the City complaints/contact page linked in Resources.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes and time limits depend on the specific bylaw or provincial offences process and are not specified on the general guidance page.
  • Defences/discretion: exemptions or permits may apply for registered charities, lawn signs on private property, or events with an approved municipal permit.

Applications & Forms

Some temporary or special-event signs require a permit or notification to the city; specific form names, numbers and fees are referenced on the related permits page or in the controlling bylaw. Where a form is not published for a sign type, the guidance page notes how to contact the city for instruction.

Practical compliance steps

  • Confirm whether your sign is on private or city land before placing it.
  • Check allowed display periods and remove signs promptly after the event.
  • Apply for any required special-event or temporary sign permit well in advance of the fundraiser.
  • Report or respond to complaints using the City of London bylaw contact procedures.
Keep records and photos of approved permits with the sign during events.

FAQ

Do I need a permit for a neighbourhood bake sale sign?
No permit is often required for small signs on private property, but check placement rules and municipal guidance; if placing on public space a permit or approval may be required.
Can I put a fundraising banner on a park fence?
Banners on city property generally need prior approval and may be removed if not authorized.
Who do I contact about a sign complaint?
Contact City of London By-law Enforcement via the official complaints page linked in Resources.

How-To

  1. Identify the sign type and location and check the City of London signs guidance.[1]
  2. Determine whether a temporary sign permit or event permit is needed and gather required information.
  3. Submit the permit application or contact By-law Enforcement if placement is uncertain.[2]
  4. If approved, display the sign only during permitted dates and keep documentation on hand.
  5. If you receive an enforcement notice, follow the directions and use the appeal route noted on the notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Temporary fundraiser signs are regulated; check whether they are on private or city land.
  • Display periods, size and location rules vary; remove signs promptly after events.
  • Contact By-law Enforcement for complaints or to confirm permit requirements.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Signs & Advertising
  2. [2] City of London - By-law Enforcement

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