Project Overview
We're updating our Sign Bylaw
The City of Fort St. John is updating the current Sign Bylaw. The current bylaw is out of date and these changes will improve the bylaw for ease of use, clarity and sign standards.
Why is this update needed?
Due to advances over time and changes in building and technology, it was time to complete a thorough review of the bylaw to bring everything up to date including definitions, administration processes, regulations and Enforcement.
What changes can you expect to see in the draft bylaw?
- Updated definitions, removal of antiquated language
- Updated regulations to align with TAC requirements
- Modernization of the format of the bylaw so it is easier to read and understand
- Building permit requirements for signs with structural elements
- We’re proposing a slight adjustment in fees, raising them from $45.00 to $50.00
- We’re streamlining the number of offenses down from 125 to just 5
Engagement Snapshot
- On May 16, a Public Open House was held to discuss the draft Sign Bylaw. Staff reviewed the public feedback received and made edits to the draft bylaw.
- Staff presented the Draft Sign Bylaw No. 2594, 2024 to Council at the Committee of the Whole meeting on June 10, 2024.
- After receiving direction from Council, staff updated the draft bylaw again, readying it to go through the adoption process.
- The 1st and 2nd readings, for repealing and replacing the old sign bylaw with Sign Bylaw No. 2594, 2024, took place at the Council meeting on July 8, 2024.
What are the changes:
- Sign Bylaw No. 2594, 2024, brought sign regulations up to current technological and industry standards, in an easier to read and administer format.
- The definitions section of the bylaw was improved by ensuring definitions were consistent with other complimentary bylaws, such as Zoning and the Building Bylaw, and that definitions were clear for both the public and administrators.
- Outdated/Unused sign types were removed from circulation and poorly defined sign types were updated for clarity and to reflect current standards or technological change.
- Application forms have been removed from the schedules so that they can be kept up to date without requiring an amendment of the bylaw, which ensures administrative changes can be completed in an efficient manner.
- The sign permit fee is now $50.00, a slight increase from the previous $45.00 and complex signs with structural elements will require a building permit, where additional building permit fees will apply.
Engagement Snapshot:
