Halifax businesses struggle with sign approval, bylaws

Two Halifax entrepreneurs are finding out how difficult it can be to hang out your shingle — even after being in business for several years. 

Liam Hennessey owns Applehead Studio and Mark Peyton owns Sailor Bup's Barber Shop on the block adjacent to the Nova Centre construction project.

Since the construction has shut down Market Street and limited foot traffic past their storefronts, they've decided to hang signs from the walls outside their doors.

"Really, we're just trying to put up a sign," said Hennessey.

"We've been trying for months now."

Peyton said he suspects they're losing customers, saying, "We've had people calling us from bars on Argyle Street saying: 'I can't find your shop, where are you?'"

So far, each business owner has paid $160 in fees. The city is seeking an additional $500 for a bylaw variance application. If their application is approved, they will be reimbursed $300.

'It should just be cut and dry'

The Downtown Halifax Land Use By-law states that hanging signs have to be set back from a public sidewalk by at least three metres. 

Since both of their businesses abut the sidewalk, a setback isn't possible.

"It should just be cut and dry," Peyton said.

"You open a business, you pay the fees, you put a sign up and that sign is there for advertising."

City spokesperson Tiffany Chase said the bylaw in question is slated to undergo its regular five-year review later this year.

"We would expect that this provision as well as many others would be considered for amendments or tweaks," she said.

"And we'll be bringing that package forward for the public's review and council's review later this fall."

Early Tuesday afternoon, Halifax Mayor Mike Savage visited both businesses to speak with the owners. Savage said he can't change the rules or skirt the process, but that he'd help however he could.

"I can't come up and say 'Change that, that, that,'" Savage said.

"I came up to have a look and go back and have a discussion."

"For him to take the time out of his day to come in and shake our hand and address the subject — you can't ask for much more than that," Hennessey said.

While the mayor's visit provided moral support, Hennessey and Peyton still have to decide if they will ignore the bylaw, pay the fees to continue the process, or wait until the fall for council to consider amending the provision.