Town of Banff

Sign Permits

While signs are important to identify buildings and services, it is necessary to regulate the number, size, type and design of signs, so that they contribute to Banff’s unique community character without dominating the appearance of the town.

When is a sign permit required?

A sign permit is required to install, alter or relocate any sign within the town.  The Land Use Bylaw defines a sign as any device, structure, fixture, writing, logo, symbol, pictorial representation, emblem, mural, or banner which is visible from any street or lane which directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution or business.

Types of signs that require a permit include, but are not limited to, wall signs, window signs, hanging signs, canopy/awning signs, directory signs, menu boxes and freestanding signs.

• Sign Permit Application Form ( PDF - 775 kb)
• Sign Regulations - See Section 11 of Land Use Bylaw ( PDF - 3.8MB)

When is a sign permit not required?

The following types of sign do not require a permit but must conform to all other regulations of the Land Use Bylaw:

• decal or painted window signs with a combined area the lesser of 0.3m² or 10% of the window area in which it is located
• temporary holiday sign and decorations provided they are erected no longer than the season or holiday they depict and in any case no longer than 45 days in a year
• signs not clearly visible from a public roadway or sidewalk

If you are unsure if a permit is required for your sign, please contact Planning & Development staff for assistance.