TI Signage Guide

Tenant Improvement Signage Requirements in Ottawa

What you need to know about signage approvals, permits, and installation during a commercial tenant improvement in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

Talk to Our Team Read the Requirements

Lundon Calling works with commercial tenants, general contractors, and property managers on the signage portion of tenant improvement projects across Ottawa and Eastern Ontario. The requirements described on this page reflect our direct experience navigating TI signage in this market.

Signage in a Tenant Improvement — What It Actually Involves

Tenant improvement projects involve renovating a commercial space to suit a new tenant. Signage is typically one of the last trades to go in — but the approvals required for signage must begin early in the process to avoid delaying occupancy.

The three layers of TI signage approval

Layer 1 — Lease sign schedule

Your lease will include a sign schedule specifying what types and sizes of signs are permitted at your location. This is the baseline — nothing can be installed that violates the lease schedule.

Layer 2 — Landlord sign approval

Even if your sign complies with the lease schedule, most landlords require a formal sign approval submission — drawings showing the sign dimensions, location, and appearance — before installation.

Layer 3 — Municipal sign permit

Any permanent exterior sign, illuminated sign, or sign over the permitted size threshold requires a building permit from the City of Ottawa or the relevant municipality. The sign permit cannot be filed until landlord approval is received.

Common TI Signage Types

Each sign type has a different approval and permit path — know what applies before your GC tender goes out.

Exterior identification sign

Fascia, channel letters, or cabinet sign: requires landlord approval and municipal permit in almost all cases. Start this process at lease signing.

Pylon or monument sign panel

If the building has a shared pylon sign, your landlord controls panel assignment. Confirm this in your lease negotiations.

Window graphics and vinyl lettering

Usually permitted under the lease without a separate municipal permit, but landlord approval of the design is commonly required.

Interior lobby signage

Generally no permit required, but landlord approval may be required in shared-lobby buildings.

Interior wayfinding

No permit required. Coordinate with your GC for installation timing.

Illuminated signs

Always require a sign permit and electrical permit. The electrical permit is obtained by the electrician completing the connection.

How Signage Fits Into Your TI Timeline

Start signage approvals at the same time as your GC tender

Signage permit timelines in Ottawa run 2–4 weeks for standard signs, longer for illuminated or complex applications. Starting at lease signing is not too early.

Coordinate with your GC on blocking and conduit

For wall-mounted illuminated signs, ensure your GC installs the appropriate backing and conduit during framing — before drywall goes up.

Plan for signage installation in the last week of the TI

Most sign installations are 1–2 day jobs. Scheduling in the final week gives maximum flexibility without risking occupancy delays.

Inspections

The City of Ottawa may require a final inspection of the installed sign, particularly for illuminated signs. Build this into your occupancy schedule.

Managing the Signage Portion of Your TI?

Lundon Calling handles permits, landlord submissions, and installation for the signage component of tenant improvement projects. Tell us about your project and we will scope the signage requirements.

Phone(613) 854-9255

Emailinfo@lundoncallinginc.com

Service AreaOttawa & Eastern Ontario