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

Grimsby’s Sign By-law 97-45 (with amendments like Election Signs 18-91) divides signage by neighbourhood and commercial corridors. Use this guide to align with downtown heritage design policies and Region approvals along the Niagara Escarpment bench.

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Quick Facts

Remember the Niagara Region overlay

Main Street East/West (Regional Road 81) and Mountain Street (Regional Road 12) are Niagara Region roads. Secure Region permits when signs sit within 20 metres of the centreline.

Permit basics

Grimsby requires permits for most exterior signage. Prepare elevation drawings, site plans, and structural information for freestanding signs. Downtown (Main Street) and Heritage Conservation Areas may impose additional material and colour standards—coordinate with Planning in advance.

A-frame / sandwich board rules

A-frames are allowed with permits, but maintain a 1.5 m accessible path along Main Street. Weight boards to withstand escarpment winds and bring them inside outside of business hours.

Window & fascia sign rules

Fascia sign area ties back to frontage allowances—Heritage Main Street signage should respect traditional materials (painted wood, gooseneck lighting). Window decals count toward overall area when placed on the exterior face.

Portable / temporary / lawn signs

Portable, roof, and inflatable signs face strict limits. Temporary development signs must be removed once occupancy is granted or marketing wraps. Portable signs require permits and defined display windows.

Digital / EMC rules

Digital displays must maintain static frames, avoid animation, and dim at night. Provide photometric data and ensure compliance with the Town’s light pollution guidelines.

Billboards / third-party signs

Billboards are limited to specific highway commercial areas and require Planning justification, separation distances, and Region input along the QEW corridor.

Election sign rules

Election Sign By-law 18-91 dictates timing and placement. Signs may go up 30 days before voting day and must avoid Town boulevards, parks, and utility poles. Remove within seven days after the vote.

Enforcement & removal

The Town may remove unauthorized signage, particularly within Main Street heritage areas. Costs are billed to the owner and repeat infractions may trigger fines.

Regional roads overlay

Main Street (Regional Road 81), Mountain Street (Regional Road 12), and Casablanca Boulevard (Regional Road 512) require Region sign permits. Submit Region documentation with your Town application.

Local FAQs

Do I need approval for Main Street A-frames?

Yes—portable signs require permits and must leave a 1.5 m accessible path. Heritage storefronts may have additional design requirements.

Are digital reader boards allowed near the escarpment?

Digital signs are reviewed case-by-case. Provide static display programming and dimming controls to address light pollution.

Does Niagara Region approval apply on Casablanca Boulevard?

Yes—Casablanca Boulevard is a Regional road. Include Niagara Region’s sign permit in your submission.

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