Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this program better than the old one?
- The TODS and Logo Signs consolidate many existing sign programs into
one that is easier
to understand and interpret
- Signs meet North American standards
- Signs improve visual impact to Alberta's landscape
- Signs are easier to read, therefore more responsive to today's travellers
What are the benefits of meeting international signage standards?
Visitors from outside the province will recognize the signs and know what
they mean, making it easier for them
to find Alberta's attractions
and services – everybody wins. It also means tourists will be driving
more safely
on Alberta's roads and highways.
What is a Logo Sign?
A Logo Sign is one with corporate logos or company name panels on it – logos
/ name panels represent businesses that provide essential services to motorists
(gas, food and lodging) – the signs indicate that you can find these
services in the upcoming community or along a service road. The signs are
blue with white lettering, with custom corporate logo or name panels attached.
What is considered an essential service?
Services basic to travellers' needs, including;
- Fuel, oil and water for vehicle operation
- Sit-down restaurants for hungry motorists
- Sleep-over accommodation for weary travellers
What are TODS?
Tourist Oriented Directional Signs (TODS) tell tourists where to find
golf courses, tours, information centres and other tourist operations.
TODS are blue with white symbols and white lettering. They use standardized
symbols
to represent each type of attraction, facility or service.
What is considered a tourist attraction, service or facility?
To be a tourist attraction, the attraction must have tourism as a core business activity. The business must provide an experience as
opposed to a commercial product or service, and the majority of its customers must reside
further than 80 km from the place of business. See eligibility criteria for
more information.
How do I know if I qualify to purchase a sign or a space for my logo on a sign?
Eligibility criteria for this
program is clearly laid out and easy to understand.There is a non-refundable
application fee when submitting an application. Applicants need to
review their eligibility requirements closely, or contact
Alberta Traffic Supply to ensure they fit in the program prior to submitting
their application and fee.
How much does it cost to put my company logo on an essential services (Logo) sign?
See Permit Fees for all program costs. For
further clarification, please contact Alberta Traffic Supply.
How much does it cost for a TODS Sign?
See Permit Fees for all program costs. For
further clarification, please contact Alberta Traffic Supply.
Where do I apply for a sign if my business is located in a community?
Small communities (less than 15,000) are permitted to put up a sign at
their highway entrance showing the attractions and facilities within the
community. The municipality chooses whether they wish to participate
and which facilities and services best represent their community. Check
with your municipality or visit the application
section of this web site.
How do I apply?
It's easy to apply. Simply download the application form from this website and mail or fax it in.
How long does it take?
Response on eligibility will be provided within 30 days. After the permit is signed and fees are received by the Program Administrator, signs can be expected to be in the ground within 60 days.
Is my old sign permit still valid under the new sign program?
Existing permits are not valid under the new tourism sign program. Existing
permits will expire under the old program during a three-year transition
period. All permit holders under the old program will need to re-apply
under the TODS and Logo Sign program in order to obtain a new permit.
What is included in my sign fees?
Three fees that relate to the new Sign Up Alberta program:
- Application Fee – a non-refundable
fee of $35 covers processing your application, reviewing eligibility,
checking site conditions and administering your account.
- Permit Fee
– a non-refundable fee which covers sign design, fabrication, delivery,
installation, and maintaining the sign in a satisfactory condition over
a five-year permit period. If the sign is knocked down or damaged, the
sign will be repaired or replaced at no additional cost. The fee is dependant
on the type of sign applied for, and for further information contact
Alberta Traffic Supply.
- Application Review Fee – a non-refundable
fee of $100 covers the review of applications that are denied by the Program
Administrator. The fee includes independent review of your business' criteria
weighed against the operating guidelines of the program. If your application
is accepted by the review group, your $100 sign review fee will be credited
towards the permit.
What options are available if my application is rejected?
Applications that are not approved likely do not meet the requirements
of the program. To be eligible, your business may need to make necessary
adjustments to meet eligibility requirements.
If you think your business is treated unfairly, you may have your application
reviewed by an independent review group. A non-refundable fee will
apply for the review process, and the fee will be credited toward the
permit if the application is approved by the group.
What happens if I no longer need my sign?
It is your responsibility to notify Alberta Traffic Supply to arrange for
the removal of your signs in the event of the business closing or it ceasing
to be an eligible tourist attraction or service.
More information on these other tourism signs can be obtained from your local Alberta Transportation District Office.
