Ottawa is updating its Permanent Signs on Private Property By-law (By-law 2016-326) to align with the City’s new Zoning By-law 2026-50. The amendments were brought forward to Ottawa City Council on October 8, 2026 following consideration by the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and the Planning and Housing Committee.

The changes are primarily technical. They are intended to ensure that the sign by-law continues to function properly under Ottawa’s new zoning framework, which uses different zone codes and terminology than the previous Zoning By-law 2008-250.

What Sign Companies Should Know

The City’s proposed amendments include:

  • replacing references to zones under Zoning By-law 2008-250 with their equivalents under Zoning By-law 2026-50;
  • updating terminology and defined terms used in the sign by-law;
  • removing a reference to properties listed on the City’s Heritage Register;
  • updating the name of Kichi Zībī Mīkan Parkway; and
  • making other minor administrative corrections.

These amendments do not represent a complete rewrite of Ottawa’s sign regulations. The Permanent Signs on Private Property By-law continues to regulate matters such as the type, size, location and illumination of permanent signs on private property.

New Zoning By-law

Ottawa City Council enacted Zoning By-law 2026-50 on March 11, 2026.

The new zoning by-law introduced new zone codes and replaced the previous zoning framework. Following an Ontario Land Tribunal decision in July 2026, the majority of Zoning By-law 2026-50 is now in force, although some provisions remain subject to appeals. Ottawa

Because sign permissions can depend on the zoning of a property, sign companies should confirm the current zoning before designing a sign or preparing a permit application.

What This Means for Sign Permit Applications

Companies working on projects in Ottawa should use the current zoning information and the latest version of the Permanent Signs on Private Property By-law when determining the requirements that apply to a proposed sign.

Depending on the location and sign type, requirements may address matters such as:

  • permitted sign types;
  • maximum sign area and height;
  • setbacks and placement;
  • illumination;
  • location on a building or property; and
  • sign permit requirements.

Applicants should verify the zoning of the property and applicable sign requirements before fabrication or installation.

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