Advertising and Signage

Development standards must be met when constructing, installing or displaying certain types of signs.

The State Policy identifies specific development standards relating to:

• building identification signs
• wall signs
• fascia signs
• under awning signs
• top hamper signs
• window signs
• replacement of identification signs
• internal signs
• community notice and public information signs
• temporary event signs
• real estate signs
• election signs

Exempt development for signage

To meet the general requirements for exempt development, the sign must:

• have consent in writing from the owner of the land on which the sign is located, as well as the consent of the owner of any adjoining land over which the sign is projecting.
• be approved under section 138 of the Roads Act 1993 if any part of the sign projects over a public road or footpath.
• not be located on or in relation to a restricted premise.
• not cover any mechanical ventilation outlets on any building
• not obstruct or interfere with any traffic sign.
• be securely fixed to the building in accordance with Australian Standards.

Maximum number of signs

The number of business identification signs that can be installed on any premises must not exceed:

• 3 signs if the building has just one commercial tenant
• 6 signs in total on any building
• 1 sign in relation to a home business, home industry or home occupation in a residential zone.

Other considerations

• If you propose to remove or prune any existing trees or vegetation, you should contact your council first to make sure you don’t need approval for this.
• Works must be structurally adequate, installed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA).
• Any structures located on public land or over a public road must have separate approval from the relevant council or Transport for NSW under the Roads Act 1993  and the Local Government Act 1993 .
• Generally, exempt development cannot be carried out on:
  • land or a building that is listed on the State Heritage Register or subject to an interim heritage order.
  • a critical habitat of an endangered species, population or ecological community under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995  or the Fisheries Management Act 1994.
  • a wilderness area under the Wilderness Act 1987.