Fort Erie Sign By-law (Full Guide): Permits, Sizes, A-Frames, Windows, Election Rules

Permit basics

Fort Erie requires permits for most external signage. Submit scaled drawings, footing details for freestanding signs, and landlord approvals when leasing. Waterfront Tourism Areas and Village Squares may layer design standards—coordinate with the Planning Division before finalizing materials or illumination.

A-frame / sandwich board rules

Portable sign rules limit A-frames to private property with defined display periods. In the Bridgeburg and Crystal Beach commercial cores, maintain clear sidewalks and avoid blocking seasonal patios.

Window & fascia sign rules

Fascia sign area ties back to building frontage; ensure attachments go into structural members and that illuminated signage does not spill light onto adjacent residential properties. Window graphics should preserve visibility for interior safety and natural light.

Portable / temporary / lawn signs

Portable, inflatable, and temporary signs require permits and must respect duration caps. Rural hamlet signs should avoid roadside ditches and stay clear of utility lines. Construction/development signs must be removed when projects achieve occupancy.

Digital / EMC rules

Electronic displays must avoid animation and include brightness controls. Provide manufacturer luminance data and dimming schedules when applying near residential waterfront neighbourhoods.

Billboards / third-party signs

New billboards are tightly restricted and typically only considered along highway commercial corridors. Supply full planning justification, sight-line diagrams, and structural engineering.

Election sign rules

Election signs may go up after nomination/writ dates and must avoid Town-owned property, traffic medians, and utility poles. Remove all signs within seven days after election day and seek Region approval for signs in Regional rights-of-way.

Enforcement & removal

By-law staff can remove portable or election signs placed on Town boulevards or causing safety hazards. Costs for removal and storage may be invoiced to the sign owner.

Regional roads overlay

Garrison Road (Highway 3), Bowen Road, Dominion Road, and Fort Erie Road corridors fall under Niagara Region Sign By-law 122-2013. Submit Region permits for signage within these corridors.