Municipal signage regulations

What you need to know before installing a commercial sign in Quebec

Installing a commercial sign in Quebec involves much more than simply choosing a design or building a structure. It’s also, and above all, a regulated process that requires specific steps, including obtaining a sign permit. At Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, we offer a turnkey service – but it’s important that our customers understand the rigor of the work done upstream.

The graphic design of a sign – whether for a dynamic display, a pylon or an illuminated sign – must meet specific technical and visual criteria required by municipalities. It’s not just an aesthetic visual: it’s a fundamental document for obtaining a permit, which must demonstrate the project’s conformity.

What’s more, standards vary not only from city to city, but also according to the type of signage. A digital sign, a traditional wall sign or a pylon are not subject to the same requirements. That’s why it’s essential to surround yourself with a signage manufacturer who masters both manufacturing and compliance rules.

In this article, discover the key elements to consider to avoid unpleasant surprises.

1. Municipal permit: mandatory (and sometimes complex)

In most Quebec cities, a permit is required before any commercial sign can be installed, whether temporary or permanent. This permit generally requires a scaled visual, a site plan, technical details and sometimes the approval of the owner or a structural professional.

At Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, we serve many Quebec municipalities, including:
Boucherville, Beloeil, La Présentation, Saint-Hyacinthe, Marieville, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Longueuil, Montreal, Laval, Blainville, Terrebonne… and many others.

Don’t see your city in this list? Contact usWe’ll be happy to confirm local requirements and point you in the right direction.

2. Maximum dimensions, location and height

Municipal bylaws set clear standards for each zone (residential, commercial, industrial or heritage). You must comply with :
Maximum authorized height
Surface area as a function of facade width
Setbacks from public roads and other structures
Type of mounting (surface-mounted, suspended, freestanding, etc.)

These parameters directly influence the design of your neon sign or billboard.

At Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, we simplify this process for you. Our team analyzes the regulations applicable to your area and produces a clear, structured and compliant document that details all the technical specifications of your project: dimensions, proposed locations, heights, type of support, materials and more. This document is ready to attach to your permit application to the city, saving you time and reducing the risk of rejection. We’re with you every step of the way to ensure that your signage is not only compliant, but optimized for visibility and visual impact.

3. Language of signage: comply with Bill 101

The Charter of the French Language requires that French be predominant on all commercial signs. This means that French must be at least twice as visible as any other language, both in terms of size and legibility. This applies as much to written content as to product names, services or slogans. If you’re displaying a trademark in English, it’s often necessary to add a descriptive version in French. Any bilingualadvertising poster must therefore be carefully designed to comply with legislation.

4. Lighting and materials: what's allowed (and what isn't)

The installation of an illuminated sign, especially a digital or animated one, is subject to specific rules established by each municipality:

Light intensity must be controlled so as not to disturb local residents or motorists.
Certain animation effects (flashing, rapid transitions) are prohibited.
In some areas – notably heritage zones – shiny, reflective or non-traditional materials may be rejected.

Any requests concerningdigital signage, types of lighting or materials used must be submitted to the city when the permit application is filed. It’s important to understand that the municipality reserves the right to accept or refuse a sign, even if it’s well designed and technically feasible. At Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, we’ll guide you and provide you with the documents you need to present a solid project, but the final decision remains in the hands of the local authorities.

5. Why choose Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage for your signage project?

Beyond the permit, you need to think about the design and manufacture of the sign itself. At Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, we’re manufacturers of commercial signs, advertising displays and digital signage. This means we have the technical expertise to produce a sign that’s durable, compliant and, above all, eye-catching.

We also offer a complete graphic design service. Our graphic designers create the complete visual for your advertising poster, taking into account technical constraints and municipal requirements. Our work goes far beyond a sketch or a preview: we deliver a print-ready file, compatible with production formats and compliant with city requirements. This ensures perfect consistency between what is presented for approval and what will actually be installed.

In short, with Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage, you get :

Analysis of municipal by-laws
Compliant graphic design
Preparing documents for permits
Custom manufacturing
Professional installation

With us, you benefit from complete support – from idea to installation – in full compliance.

Do you have a signage project? We'll take care of it, from A to Z.

For an advertising poster or illuminated sign that’s consistent, visible and long-lasting, put your trust in our team.

Contact Xénon Enseignes & Éclairage today for a free consultation or quote.