How much does a storefront sign cost in the GTA?

Short answer: it depends on the sign. A simple non-illuminated panel and a large set of illuminated channel letters are very different jobs, and their prices are far apart. Rather than guess at a number that won’t match your storefront, this guide explains what actually drives the cost, so you can compare quotes properly and choose the sign that fits your budget.

1. The type of sign

The type of sign has the biggest effect on price. From simpler to more involved, the most common storefront options are:

Vinyl lettering or a printed panel. Graphics applied to a flat panel or directly to the fascia. The most budget-friendly option, but not illuminated.
Dimensional letters. Individual cut letters (acrylic, PVC or metal) mounted to the wall or a backer panel. A clean, architectural look without lighting.
Light box (cabinet) sign. A lit box with a printed face. Cost-effective for an illuminated sign, and the face can be replaced if your branding changes.
Channel letters. Individual 3D letters, usually lit. The most common choice for GTA plazas, and generally more involved because every letter is fabricated and wired separately.
Halo-lit or front-and-back lit letters. Premium versions of channel letters with more complex fabrication.

2. Size

Bigger signs use more material, take longer to build and need more labour to install. Your plaza or the city’s sign by-law will usually set a maximum size based on your storefront width, so the size is often decided for you. It’s worth measuring your sign band before you ask for quotes.

3. Illumination

Lighting adds parts and labour: LED modules, power supplies, wiring and the electrical connection on site. In Ontario, electrical work falls under the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and illuminated signs should be certified electrical products. Lit signs cost more than non-lit ones, but they work for your business 24 hours a day.

4. Materials and finish

Aluminium returns, acrylic faces, painted versus vinyl colours, and custom colour matching all affect the price. A logo with many colours or fine detail takes more work than simple block letters.

5. Installation

Every building is different. Things that affect installation cost include:

Height and access. A second-storey sign may need a bucket truck or lift.
Mounting surface. Brick, EIFS (stucco), metal cladding and existing sign bands are each handled differently.
Power. Whether there’s already a power source behind the sign band, or one needs to be arranged.
Removing an old sign and patching the surface underneath.

6. Permits and drawings

Most permanent exterior signs in Mississauga, Brampton and Toronto need a city sign permit. That means site measurements, permit drawings and an application, plus the city’s own permit fee. Some quotes include this and some don’t. See our guide: Do you need a sign permit in Mississauga, Brampton or Toronto?

7. Design

If you already have a logo, design is mostly about adapting it to your storefront. If you need branding created, or several mock-ups on a photo of your building, that’s additional design time.

How to compare quotes

When two quotes look very different, check that they include the same things:

Is it the same type of sign, at the same size?
Is it illuminated, and is the electrical connection included?
Are installation, permit drawings and the permit application included?
Is removal of the old sign included?
Is there a proof or mock-up before production?

A lower price that leaves out the permit or installation can end up costing more.

How to get an accurate quote fast

Send us:

A photo of your storefront, taken straight on
Rough measurements of the sign band or wall area
Your logo (vector files like AI, EPS or PDF are best)
Whether you’d like it lit, and any budget you have in mind

We’ll recommend the best option for your building and budget, and give you a written quote covering design, fabrication, permit and installation.

Every sign is quoted individually. This article explains general cost factors and isn’t a price list.