After much deliberation and editing, the Selectboard have approved a new Center Sign Policy.
Click Here to view the new policy.
The primary purpose of the Center Sign Policy is to regulate the placement of advertising signs and other informative signage on the Town-owned land at the Town Center. This replaces the 2009 version of the policy and tries to clarify the standards for what types of signs may be placed, the appearance of those signs, and the maximum number of signs.
Those who wish to place signs on Town-owned property in the Center, must get approval from the Selectboard prior to placing the sign. The application is available here. Please email the completed application to selectmen@canterburynh.gov.
If you are interested in reading more about how the policy was developed and why certain choices were made, check out the following minutes:
- 4/6/26 Section 8.a.
- 3/16/26 Section 7.a.
- 10/20/25 Section 6.a.
- 10/6/25 Section 7.c.
- 9/22/25 Section 4.
- 9/8/25 Section 4.
FAQ
What happens if I place a sign without permission?
Town Officials will remove the sign and attempt to contact you to have you fill out an application. If we are unable to contact you, we will store the sign for a few weeks and then dispose of it.
What if I have been placing signs for years without permission?
The 2009 policy always required that those placing signs submit an application, but the policy wasn’t strictly enforced. This new policy will be enforced, so before you want to put up your signs going forward, please be sure to submit an application.
How long does it take to process an application?
Once you submit a complete application, it will be presented to the Selectboard at their next regular meeting (1st and 3rd Monday’s of the month). Once the application is approved, someone from the Town Offices will get in contact with you a day or two after the meeting.
What if the sign I want to place doesn’t completely comply with the policy?
The Selectboard have some discretion with this policy, so exceptions can be made for good reason. However, your reasoning for requesting the exception should be explained clearly in your application and the Selectboard may deny the request.
What land does this apply to?
The specific map and lot numbers are specified in the policy. This policy only applies to land in the town’s center that is owned by the municipality. Land in the center that isn’t owned by the municipality is not governed by this policy. Land elsewhere in town that is owned by the municipality is not governed by this policy.
What if I have other questions?
First, be sure to actually read the policy itself. It is pretty detailed and covers most questions. If you still have questions after that, just email us at selectmen@canterburynh.gov and we will get back to you with answers!