Sign Permit Timeline & Fees - London, Ontario

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

In London, Ontario, sign permits and advertising signage are regulated by municipal planning and by-law rules that set timelines for review, required documents and processing fees. This guide explains typical application steps, expected processing times, fee categories, enforcement pathways and appeal routes for sign permit applications in London.

Apply early: allow extra time for variances or site reviews.

Typical timelines and processing overview

Processing times depend on application completeness, complexity and whether variances or committee review are required. Simple permit reviews are often faster; larger or illuminated signs and signs requiring variances take longer.

  • Initial completeness review: timeline not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Technical review and circulation: timelines vary by department and project complexity.
  • Committee or council-level decisions (if required): additional weeks to months depending on meeting schedules.

Fees and processing charges

Fees for sign permits are set by the City and may be listed in the planning or development fees schedule; specific fee amounts for sign permits are not specified on the cited page[2]. Where published, fees typically depend on sign type, size and whether electrical or structural permits are needed.

  • Application fee: amount not specified on the cited page[2].
  • Additional review or resubmission fees: not specified on the cited page.
  • Separate electrical or building permits may incur additional fees.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of sign rules is carried out by the City’s planning and by-law enforcement divisions with powers to issue orders, require removal of non-compliant signs and seek court remedies. Specific fine amounts for offences are not specified on the cited pages; the official enforcement pages should be consulted for exact figures[1].

Non-compliant signs can be removed at the owner’s expense.
  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence handling is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or alter signage, seizure or abatement actions may be used.
  • Enforcer: Planning and By-law Enforcement divisions; complaints and inspections follow municipal complaint procedures[1].
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are governed by municipal procedures and are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes a Sign Permit Application form and guidance for applicants; the exact form name or number is not specified on the cited page[1]. Applicants should include plans, drawings, dimensions, mounting details and any electrical permits required.

Incomplete applications delay processing; include complete drawings and contact information.
  • Sign Permit Application: name/number not specified on the cited page.
  • Supporting documents: site plan, elevations, structural drawings if applicable.
  • Payment: follow the City fee payment instructions on the official fees page[2].
  • Submission: typically online or at the City planning counter; consult the official form page for exact submission details.

How to

  1. Check the City of London sign guidance and determine whether your sign requires a permit.[1]
  2. Download and complete the Sign Permit Application and gather drawings and photos.
  3. Review applicable fees on the City development/fees page and prepare payment.[2]
  4. Submit the application through the City’s prescribed submission method.
  5. Respond promptly to requests for additional information to avoid delays.
  6. If refused or issued an order, follow appeal instructions on the decision notice or contact the City for review timelines.

FAQ

Do all signs need a permit?
Many signs require a permit; exemptions exist for temporary or small signs—check the City guidance for specific exemptions.[1]
How long does approval take?
Approval timelines vary by complexity; simple permits are faster while variance or committee reviews add time—exact timelines are not specified on the cited pages.
Where do I pay fees?
Fees are paid according to the City’s development fees schedule; see the official fees page for payment methods and amounts.[2]
What if my sign is non-compliant?
The City can issue orders to remove or alter non-compliant signs and may seek fines or court remedies; follow the enforcement instructions provided by By-law Enforcement.

Key Takeaways

  • Start early and submit complete drawings to reduce delays.
  • Check the official fees schedule before applying to confirm cost.
  • Contact Planning or By-law Enforcement for clarification or to report non-compliant signs.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Signs and Advertising
  2. [2] City of London - Development and Application Fees

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