9/15/2013 5:35:24 PM

September 12, 2013
The City of Toronto is looking for the public's input on potential changes to the sign regulations related to electronic and illuminated signs and billboards.

Earlier this year, the City of Toronto initiated a comprehensive research project that included a planning and design review, an update of traffic safety implications, and a poll to assess public opinion in Toronto towards electronic and illuminated signs.

Based on the planning and design review, potential changes to Toronto's sign regulations have been identified and were introduced at the September 12 meeting of the City's Planning and Growth Management Committee. A copy of the planning and design review is available at http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2013/pg/bgrd/backgroundfile-61192.pdf.

The findings related to electronic and illuminated signs and billboards will form part of the final recommendations in the staff report to City Council.

Specific issues being considered as part of this review include:
- Locations where illuminated and electronic signs should be allowed in the city,
- The impact of these types of signs on surrounding neighbourhoods, and
- The impact of these signs on public spaces.

Public consultation is an essential element of this process. All Toronto residents and businesses are encouraged to participate and provide the City with feedback about this important issue. Members of the public are invited to attend one of the following workshops for a brief presentation, and to speak with City staff to share thoughts and ideas on this subject.

Public information sessions will be held from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on the following dates:

- Monday, September 23, North York Civic Centre
- Tuesday, September 24, Etobicoke Civic Centre
- Wednesday, September 25, Toronto City Hall
- Thursday, September 26, Scarborough Civic Centre

Each session will have an information presentation at 7:30 p.m. Attendees will be able to speak one-on-one with staff and ask any questions or provide feedback and ideas.

For those unable to attend in person, comments can also be sent directly to signbylawunit@toronto.ca.

For more information, please visit http://www.toronto.ca/signbylawunit.