Big signs could tell you what's planned for the lot down the street

Windsor may put big signs on lots with development proposals, so neighbours know what's coming. A small-sign pilot drew 256 QR scans. Larger signs for rezonings would start in 2027, with meeting dates added about 20 days ahead. Committee votes Nov. 9.

Topics: Community

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The City of Windsor wants to put signs on properties where someone has applied to rezone or develop the land, so people nearby can see what is proposed before it is decided. The plan goes to a special meeting of the Development and Heritage Standing Committee on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026 at 3 p.m.

Why the City is doing this

The Ontario Planning Act requires notice before a public meeting on an application. The City meets that rule by advertising in the local newspaper. As a courtesy, it also mails notice to owners within 60 metres of a Committee of Adjustment application and within 200 metres of an application going to the Development and Heritage Standing Committee, and posts details on its website.

Even so, staff say some delegates at public meetings say they were unaware of an application or did not get a notice, for example because they don't read the local newspaper or live outside the mailing area.

The pilot

In March 2026, the Planning Department started a pilot of on-site signs for Committee of Adjustment applications, such as minor variances and severances. Signs went up for every application over the past eight Committee of Adjustment meetings. Each sign has a QR code that links to the online agenda. Staff report the codes have been scanned 256 times, and about one or two people per meeting said they heard about the application from the sign.

What's next

Staff plan a second pilot in 2027 for applications that go to the Development and Heritage Standing Committee, such as Official Plan changes, rezonings, plans of subdivision and plans of condominium.

The signs would be much larger than the Committee of Adjustment signs.

They would go up once an application is deemed complete and stay until Council decides, about three to four months.

The applicant would print and install the sign using a City template that Planning staff approve.

About 20 days before the public meeting, a sticker would add the date, time and location, and how to register as a delegate or send written comments.

If the sign isn't posted in time, the application may be deferred to a later meeting.

What it means for you

If a sign goes up on a lot near you, you would be able to scan it or read it to find the proposal, then use the meeting details to speak or send comments before the committee and Council decide.

What Council is asked to approve

Staff recommend amending the City's Sign By-law (250-2004) to create a "planning application sign" category, exempt those signs from needing a sign permit (unless the Ontario Building Code requires an architect or engineer to design them), and allow them to be attached to fences.

The committee meets Monday, Nov. 9, 2026 at 3 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall.