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

Lincoln splits signage between Private Property Sign By-law 05-60 and Public Property Sign By-law 05-59. This guide walks through both frameworks with references for Beamsville, Vineland, and Jordan Village.

Remember the Niagara Region overlay

Regional roads include Ontario Street (Regional Road 24), King Street (Regional Road 81), and Victoria Avenue (Regional Road 24). Signs within 20 metres of these corridors require Niagara Region sign permits.

Permit basics

Private Property Sign By-law 05-60 requires permits for permanent, freestanding, illuminated, and portable signs. Public Property Sign By-law 05-59 governs banner programs, decorative signage, and community events on Town lands. Submit drawings, site plans, and property owner consent to Building Services.

A-frame / sandwich board rules

A-frames fall under portable sign regulations—display them on private property with defined time limits. Jordan Village and Beamsville downtown sidewalks require at least 1.5 m of clearance for pedestrians and accessibility.

Window & fascia sign rules

Fascia sign area depends on frontage and zoning; signage should harmonize with vineyard architecture in Vineland and Jordan. Window graphics must avoid obstructing safety glazing and should complement façade improvements.

Portable / temporary / lawn signs

Portable and temporary signs require permits and must adhere to duration limits. Agricultural operations should position directional signage off the public right-of-way and avoid blocking ditches or culverts.

Digital / EMC rules

Digital displays must maintain static frames, avoid animation, and dim at night. Provide brightness controls when installing along the wine route to prevent glare for nighttime traffic.

Billboards / third-party signs

Billboards are tightly regulated and typically limited to highway corridors. Planning justification and Region approvals are required before proceeding.

Election sign rules

Election signs must stay off Town property unless permitted by the Public Property Sign By-law, and must respect timing specified in the Municipal Elections Act. Remove them within seven days of the vote.

Enforcement & removal

The Town may remove unpermitted or unsafe signage, especially on public property, and invoice the owner for associated costs.

Regional roads overlay

Ontario Street (Regional Road 24), King Street (Regional Road 81), Victoria Avenue (Regional Road 24), and Fly Road (Regional Road 65) require Niagara Region sign approvals. Submit Region permit documentation alongside municipal applications.

Local FAQs

Can Jordan Village shops place A-frames outside?

Yes, with permits and provided 1.5 m of clear sidewalk width remains for pedestrians. Bring boards in after hours to avoid weather damage.

Do wineries on King Street need Region permits?

Yes—King Street is Regional Road 81. Region permits are required for freestanding and temporary signage within the right-of-way.

How do I hang banners on Town light standards?

Public Property Sign By-law 05-59 governs banners on Town infrastructure. Apply through Town staff with proposed artwork and installation dates.

Lincoln signage, simplified

We support wineries, farm-gate retailers, and service businesses across Lincoln with full-service signage—drawings, permits, fabrication, and installation including Region approvals.