Fascia Signs - Wherever possible utilize the fascia area for signage between the storefront and the second floor. Wood painted signs are encouraged. 2 Flush mounted illuminated letters can not exceed 600mm (24") in height.

Marquee Signs - These types of signs require special authorization from Kincore. This type of signage will not be considered for any of Kincore's heritage buildings.

Mast-Arm Signs - Projecting signs such as painted, engraved or cut wood are suitable to the urban streetscape and are encouraged. Illuminated projecting box signs require Kincore’s authorization. Projecting signs must conform to the City Bylaws.

Sandwich Signs - These signs may not exceed 600mm (2') in width and 1000mm (3') in height. One sandwich sign is permitted for each store. Signs cannot obstruct the view of pedestrians and vehicles. A city permit is required.

Neon Tube Signs - The restrained use of non-flashing neon tube signs is permitted. This type of signage will not be considered for any of Kincore's heritage buildings.

Vertical Signs - Flush mounted and projecting vertical signs can overwhelm a building and streetscape and are not permitted.

Window Signs - Signs in windows may not exceed 1m2 and must be placed on the inside. Latex paint or cut vinyl lettering and logos are encouraged. Avoid poster signs that will become sun bleached over time.

Other Signs - Changing and electronic signs, flashing signs, mobile fluorescent signs, roof signs and lit display signs are not suitable to the urban streetscape and will not be accepted. Painted signs on the outside of the building are not permitted.

Types of signs not described above require special authorization from Kincore.

Design Suggestions

Avoid Clutter - Uncluttered signs are more legible.
Size - Ensure the sign relates to the building in size. Historic signs are generally smaller. Oversized, over-illuminated and flashy signs are unnecessary in the core and cause confusion to the reader.
Typefaces - Clear easy to read type is preferable to intricate lettering. Try a maximum of 2 typefaces.
Colour - Limit colours to a maximum of 2 or 3 complementary tones. Use contrast for lettering and logos to increase readability.
Neighbourliness - Avoid corporate signs with no regional context. Do not allow signage to affect the skyline or obstruct views.
Target - If designing a sign primarily intended to draw pedestrian traffic, consider signs such as small projecting signs, window signs and sandwich signs. If the sign is targeting pedestrians on the other side of the street then fascia signs and awning signs are more appropriate.
Architectural Consistency - Compliment the buildings architectural features. Architectural details should not be obstructed by signage. In the core area consider the ambience and character of the streetscape as one of your store’s most important assets.
 
Installation

Signs and awnings must be installed with minimum damage to the building facade and leave architectural features unobscured. Fasten signs in a manner that will resist snow loads, wind and moisture. Supports should be drilled into the mortar joints, not the brick or stone or concealed areas in the woodwork. Only licensed and insured sign installers can fasten signs to a building.

>Lighting

Indirect or reflective lighting is encouraged on buildings in the core area. Lights must be covered sufficiently to prevent glare. No flashing or intermittent lights are acceptable.

>Maintenance

Signs that are built with high quality materials and are well maintained will be more legible, last longer, give a quality image to the potential shopper and enhance the streetscape. The sign must be structurally sound to avoid hazards to the public. Fasteners and cables must be checked periodically for deterioration. Maintenance includes cleaning, repainting and occasionally replacing signage.
 
Existing Signs

Some buildings will have existing signage that does not meet the intentions of this guideline will be reviewed at the time of re-leasing by the tenant.
 
>Sign Removal

A deposit of $500.00 is required for each sign fastened to the building to cover the cost of the signs removal if the tenant fails to remove their sign when vacating or if the sign becomes unsafe or fails to be in conformance with aim of this guideline. Where signs have been removed it is the responsibility of the lessee to make good the surfaces affected by the sign. The Owner must be notified one week prior to the removal of signs. The deposit will be returned to the lessee upon the satisfactory removal of the sign.
 
>Approval

All new signage requires written authorization from Kincore prior to installation. Drawings of the signage including elevations and sections are required to be submitted to Kincore for approval. The drawings must indicate the materials, colours and lighting to be used.