Frequently asked questions about project signage

Program overview and requirements

• Why a new infrastructure signage program?

  Placing signs at construction sites is a long-standing practice to communicate key project details to the public. Through project signs, Canadians can easily recognize where infrastructure investments are being made in their communities and the benefits of those investments.

  The Government of Canada is committed to increasing transparency in how it delivers its programs. The signs tell the story of how all levels of government are working together to make investments that Builds Canada Strong by improving quality of life, creating opportunity, and making our communities great places to work, live and raise a family.

• When does the new program come into effect?

  The new guidelines came into effect on July 6, 2026 and will replace any previously issued signage guidelines.

• What federal programs does the new signage program apply to?

  These guidelines apply to all federal housing and infrastructure funding and transfer programs, including any new signs being installed for previous infrastructure application and transfer-based funding programs.

• Will signs be required for projects that have already started?

  A number of factors will weigh into that decision, including how long it will still be under construction, its size, location, duration and accessibility. Project manager will make that decision based on guidance contained in the new signage guidelines and their contribution agreement.

Sign installation, design and maintenance

• How do project managers decide on the right size, number, and material for a sign?

  The size and type of sign produced for each project varies based on the project parameters – location, public access, visibility concerns, project size and scope and duration. The signage guidelines include specifications guidance. For interior signs, the size would be relatively small but the signs for high-speed highways would be much larger to make them easier to read as cars pass by. Many community infrastructure projects with exterior construction sites require a sign that will withstand the elements for several months or years.

  In most cases, only one sign is required. However, project managers are free to install additional signs if warranted. For example, for highway projects, normally two signs are installed – one for each traffic direction.

• How long will signs need to stay up?

  Signs are normally installed 30 days before construction begins until 30 days after construction has been completed.

• What do I do with the sign when the project is completed?

  The sign should stay in place for 30 days after the public begin to use the infrastructure for its intended purpose. After that, the sign should be removed and recycled.

• Will any existing signs have to be replaced?

  We will not seek the replacement of existing funding recognition signs, unless requested otherwise by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. If an existing sign is damaged, it should be replaced with one of the new design.

• Do I have to have sign designs and content approved?

  The guidelines will help project managers to produce and install signs according to their contribution agreement. There is no requirement to get federal approval on the sign layout. However, if there are questions, the project manager can contact either the provincial or territorial fund manager, or contact Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada directly at signs-panneaux@infc.gc.ca.

• If I use a digital sign, do I still need to use a physical sign on my construction site?

  Digital signs should be used to compliment physical signage at construction sites. However, where physical signage is not appropriate, for example for study, report or remote projects, or where the project is of short duration and low cost, digital signage could be used as an alternative to physical signs. In this case, recipients may be granted an exemption to use digital signage only, with approval from Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada.

Financial and reporting aspects

• Who pays for the cost of the signs?

  This is a joint multi-partners sign, and any related costs are eligible project expenses. As such, they are cost shared in accordance with the agreed funding formula outlined in the project or program's contributions agreement.

• Do I have to report on sign installations?

  Sign installations should be reported through your regular program update reports. In many instances this is just a check box.

Additional information

• Where can I get additional information?

  You can find more information in the Project signage guidelines and the signage design templates. If any additional questions remain, you should contact your respective provincial or territorial fund manager or Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada:

  Email: signs-panneaux@infc.gc.ca
  Telephone HICC: 613-948-1148
  Toll Free Number: 1-877-250-7154
  TTY: 1-800-465-7735