Checklist (PDF, 228 KB)
A sign is defined as any surface, fabric, device, display or visual medium, including the component parts, which bears letters, pictorial forms or sculptured matter, including logos, used or intended to be used to convey information or to attract attention to the subject matter of such sign. Graphics painted upon the side of a building which carry no advertising shall not be construed to be a sign, except where such graphics pictorially display products or business that convey an advertising intent. The term "sign" includes the sign structure and includes billboards and banners.
A sign is illegal if it was erected in violation of any regulation applicable at the time of erection of such sign. Any sign which is not deemed a nonconforming sign by the Planning Authority or the designee, shall be considered an illegal sign.
Guidelines for use of Advertising Signs
- No sign will be permitted (except for purely directional signs needed to advertise a hidden business), if it is unrelated to the property on which it is to be sited.
- Advertisements that are sited within the road reserve should be carefully located to maintain road safety.
- Signs or billboards can vary in sizes as seen below
- ideally be 3 to four feet by 1 foot and be a maximum height of 5 feet above the concrete base if free- standing or a minimum of 7 ft. 6 in. if attached to a building.
- Signs should be a minimum 5 ft from the edge of the road/curb or drain
- Signs may be externally illuminated by spotlights but only in a commercial area. No illuminated signs will be allowed in a residential area.
- The maximum size of projecting signs should be 3ft x 4ft. No lettering may be more than 2ft high and no sign affixed to a building shall be displayed, so that the highest part is greater than 14ft 6in above the ground. The base of freestanding signs should be firmly fixed in concrete and hanging signs, should be suspended by chains for strength. Such signs must be removed in the event of high winds.
- Fascia signs should be designed so that they are flushed against the building. The lower edge of the sign should not be placed higher than 12ft above the ground. The design of the building will be taken into account when assessing such signs.
- No signs shall be placed in such a manner as to obscure or hinder any road traffic sign or cause any distraction to drivers.