Signs Information

Common sign types and rules

Lawn Signs

These signs can be used by renovators, fence installers, pavers, landscapers and pool installers that are licensed in the City of Vaughan, and by trades licensed or otherwise certified by provincial legislation. 

Rules

• May only be displayed on the property on which the work is being conducted
• May only be displayed with a property owner’s permission.
• May not exceed 0.6 square metres.
• Must display the business’ municipal licence number.
• Must be removed within five business days after the work has been completed.

Real estate signs

These signs are temporary signs that advertise a building, property or premises as for sale, lease or rent. Only one sign per lot is allowed. 

Rules

• Must be removed within 14 days after an offer is accepted to purchase, lease or rent the premises.
• Must list the address of the property being advertised.

Mobile signs

These are portable signs that are designed to have their content changed. A permit is required to display a mobile sign in Vaughan. Learn more. 

Election signs

These are temporary signs that advertise a registered candidate in a federal, provincial or municipal election. 

Rules 

• May only be erected six weeks prior to voting day.
• Must be placed on private property with the property owner’s permission.
• Must not be larger than 1.49 square metres (including any border or frame).
• Must be set back one metre from all street lines, a minimum of 1.5 metres from any common lot boundary with an adjacent lot and not be located within a daylighting triangle – the outside corner of a property at an intersection.
• When placed on regional roads, must follow York Region’s Signs on Regional Roads By-law No. 2015-36 and are only permitted at intersections on regional roads.
• Must be removed within 72 hours following the election.

For a full list of the signs permitted in Vaughan and the rules around them, read the Sign By-law (PDF).

Enforcement

When a sign is installed without a permit on property owned by or under the jurisdiction of the City, the sign could be removed without notice. When a sign is installed without a permit on private property, the City may issue a letter stating the sign must be removed. If the sign is not removed, the City may remove it at the sign owner’s expense. 

Any person or corporation violating the Sign By-law may face legal action, including fines for each offence.

Report an illegal sign

• Call Service Vaughan at 905-832-2281.
• Email the City’s By-law and Compliance, Licensing and Permit Services team at bylaw@vaughan.ca 

Consumer protection

Always use caution when contacting companies that advertise illegally, such as placing stickers and posters on public property. These companies are often not licensed.

To see if a business or contractor is licensed by the City, you can:

• check online.
• call 905-832-2281.
• email bylaw@vaughan.ca

However, the fact that a business or contractor is licensed does not necessarily mean they are best suited for the work. Even if a business or contractor is licensed by the City, you must do your own due diligence to ensure they are qualified and a good fit for the job.