Downtown Signage

Sign By-Law

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Downtown Signage

Permanent signs generally require a Sign Permit before being installed or erected. However most temporary signage (e.g. Sandwich Board Signs) do not require a permit.

In all cases, signage must follow the specific size and placement rules in the Town of Bracebridge Sign By-law, key provisions of which are summarized below.

Typical Downtown Sign Types

Select a sign type below to view its specific size limits and location requirements.

Wall Signs

Window Graphics

Perpendicular Signs

Sandwich Boards

Open and Closed Signs

Prohibited Sign Types

Any permanent sign attached flat against the wall of a building.

  • Maximum Size: Your total sign area cannot exceed 20% of the business's storefront wall face (Including the area of any Window Graphics).

  • Location: Signs must be located on the ground floor level (unless the business occupies the whole building).

  • Materials: Must be made of rigid, durable materials. Vinyl banners or flexible sheets attached with ropes/grommets are not permitted as permanent wall signs.

  • Projection: Cannot project more than 0.6 m (2 ft) from the face of the wall.

Any decal, vinyl wrap, paint, or perforated film applied to a window or glass door.

  • They Count as Signs: Window graphics are considered "Wall Signs." Their surface area counts toward the 20% total allowance mentioned above.

  • Exceptions:

    • Merchandise Displays: Standard window shopping displays (mannequins, products) are allowed and do not count as signs.

    • Blinds & Curtains: Standard interior window treatments used for privacy or sun control are permitted and not regulated.

    • Murals: Artistic murals that are purely decorative and contain no commercial advertising (logos, slogans, product names) are not considered signs.

A sign that projects outward from the building face (typically hanging from a bracket)

  • Limit: One (1) per storefront.

  • Safety Clearance: The bottom of the sign must be at least 2.4 m (8 ft) above the sidewalk to ensure pedestrian safety.

  • Size Limit: Maximum size of 1.2 sq. m (12.9 sq. ft).

A portable, A-frame style sign placed on the ground during business hours.

  • Limit: One (1) per business.

  • Timing: Must be removed overnight. Permitted display hours are 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m..

  • Placement: Must be placed on private property in the closest proximity to your building to keep the sidewalk clear for pedestrians.

  • Exception: Businesses on Chancery Lane and Anderson Lane may place signs where their lane meets the Manitoba Street sidewalk.

Small signs displayed in a window or door to indicate 'open' or 'closed', as well as business hours.

  • Permit: No permit required.

  • Allowance: One (1) per business.

  • Maximum Size: 0.5 sq. m (5.4 sq. ft).

  • Illumination & Flashing:

    • "OPEN": May be illuminated and may flash (only during business hours).

    • "CLOSED": May be illuminated but must remain static (no flashing).

    • Copy Restrictions: Text is strictly limited to the words "Open" and "Closed" and may include business operating hours.

Questions?

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