Mural Regulations

Mural regulations under Sign By-law 2005-439

A mural sign is an expression of public art painted directly on the exterior of a building or on a backing that is affixed to the building and is sanctioned by the property owner.

While a sign permit is not required for a mural sign, the mural must comply with the applicable provisions of Sign By-law 2005-439.

Mural signs are permitted on most institutional, industrial and commercially zoned properties in the City of Ottawa. It is the sign owner’s responsibility to ensure that the size, scale, design and appearance of the mural sign complies to the urban design guidelines, or any site specific policies of the Official Plan or other City policies as they relate to the appearance of the building, architectural features of the building and character of the neighbourhood in which it is located.

Where mural signs are permitted, the following restrictions apply:

  • Murals are not permitted on the exterior wall containing the main entrance to the building.
  • Murals may not be installed and maintained to an area not exceeding a maximum sign face area of 100 per cent of the exterior wall area of the first three storeys upon the wall or façade where the mural sign is located.
  • Murals may not be used for any form of commercial advertising or public information or solicitation of any kind.

Up to 10 per cent of the sign face, at the lowest corner of a mural sign, may be utilized as an acknowledgement recognizing the sponsor of the mural sign. The designated area for the acknowledgement must not exceed a maximum area of 1 square metre.

Further information on mural signs can be obtained by contacting the Addressing and Signs Unit.

Contact Information:

Phone: 613-580-2424, ext. 41162

E-mail: addressingandsigns@ottawa.ca
CON037071