Electronic Message Centre Bylaws - London, Ontario

In London, Ontario, electronic message centres on signs are regulated through the citys signs and permitting framework to protect safety, visual amenity and traffic sightlines. This guide explains when a permit is required, technical and illumination considerations, how the city enforces rules, and the practical steps to apply for or appeal a decision. It is intended for property owners, businesses and sign contractors working in London who need to comply with municipal sign requirements and avoid fines or orders.

What electronic message centre rules cover

Electronic message centres (EMCs) are dynamic or programmable sign faces integrated into freestanding signs, fascia signs, or other permitted sign types. The city regulates location, size, brightness, animation and hours of operation to reduce distraction and ensure compliance with zoning and road safety standards. For official program details and permit requirements see the City of London signs and advertising page City signs & advertising^[1].

When you need a permit

• Most permanent EMC installations require a sign permit from City of London Building Services; temporary or event signage may have different rules.
• Applications usually must include scaled drawings, electrical details and a site plan showing set-backs and sightlines.
• Fees and processing timelines are published with the application materials on the sign permit page Sign permit application^[2].

Design, illumination and safety standards

Standards typically control maximum sign area for illuminated faces, luminous intensity, scrolling or flashing restrictions, and automatic dimming at night. Exact numeric limits and measurement methods are set out in the citys sign guidance and technical specifications on the official sign pages City signs & advertising^[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of London enforces sign rules through Municipal Law Enforcement and Building Services. Enforcement tools include orders to remedy or remove non-compliant signs, administrative orders, and prosecution in court. If you receive a compliance order, the order will explain deadlines and appeal rights.

• Monetary fines: specific fine amounts for sign bylaw offences are not specified on the cited pages.
• Escalation: the city may issue initial warnings or orders followed by fines or court charges for continuing offences; exact escalation steps and dollar ranges are not specified on the cited pages.
• Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, stop-work directives, and court injunctions are available to the citys enforcement officers.
• Enforcer and complaints: Municipal Law Enforcement and Building Services handle investigations and complaints; contact information is on the city website Laws, licenses & permits^[3].
• Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are stated on individual orders or permit decisions; if an appeal route is not printed on the decision, the enforcement notice will state how to challenge it and applicable deadlines are given there.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes a sign permit application and checklist; the application lists required drawings, electrical details and submission instructions. Specific application form names and fee amounts are published on the sign permit application page Sign permit application^[2]. If a fee table or form number is not visible on that page, the fee is not specified on the cited page.

Action steps

• Prepare scaled plans, electrical drawings and a site plan showing the proposed EMC location.
• Check the published fee and submit the sign permit application online or in person per the Building Services instructions.
• Allow inspections: schedule electrical and sign inspections as required and retain records of approvals.
• If you receive an order, follow the notice for appeal steps or compliance deadlines; seek a variance only where the city provides a formal variance or minor variance route.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to install an electronic message centre?

Yes, most permanent EMCs require a sign permit; consult the citys sign permit application page for submission requirements and documents needed.

Are there brightness or animation limits for EMCs?

Yes, the city regulates brightness, scrolling and flashing to reduce distraction; see the official sign guidance for technical standards City signs & advertising^[1].

What if my sign is found non-compliant?

The city may issue orders, fines or require removal; the notice will include compliance deadlines and appeal information.

How-To

1. Review the City of London signs and advertising guidance to confirm your site and sign type are permitted.
2. Assemble required documents: scaled drawings, electrical specs, site plan and contractor licencing information.
3. Complete and submit the sign permit application and pay applicable fees as listed on the sign permit application page.
4. Schedule inspections for electrical work and sign installation and retain inspection certificates.
5. If you disagree with an enforcement order or permit decision, follow the appeal instructions on the notice or contact Municipal Law Enforcement for review.

Key Takeaways

• Always check city sign rules before designing an EMC to avoid costly rework or orders.
• Permit applications usually require technical drawings and can take several weeks to process.
• Non-compliance can lead to orders, removal and possible prosecution; act quickly if notified.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of London  Laws, licenses & permits
• City of London Building Services
• City of London Planning and Development

1. [1] City of London  Signs and advertising
2. [2] City of London  Sign permit application
3. [3] City of London  Laws, licenses & permits