A Complete Guide To MBJB Signboard Requirements
Signboard licenses from Majlis Perbandaran Johor Bahru (MBJB) are almost always applied for together with a premise license via a Premise and Signboard License application form.
Naturally, submissions must include a signboard design that meets MBJB requirements.
In this guide we explain these requirements so you enjoy a smooth application process and start operating as soon as possible.
Let’s begin.
MBJB signboard requirements
Here’s an example of a signboard from MBJB’s official license application checklist:
MBJB requirements can be split into three categories:
- Physical requirements
- Use of Bahasa Melayu
- Content
Physical requirements
Officially, the maximum size for a signboard is 20’ x 4’, though in practice we’ve had luck applying for signboards up to 20’ x 5’ in size.
For indoor signboards, measurements can be as small as 8.3 x 11.7 inches, or A4-paper sized.
Finally, signboards cannot obscure building facades.
Use of Bahasa Melayu
The business nature must be clearly displayed in Bahasa Melayu at the top of the signboard.
Though official rules state the Bahasa Melayu font must be no smaller than other languages, it’s at the discretion of MBJB to decide whether or not your signboard meets the spirit of the law, which is to clearly state its business to potential customers.
So be reasonable with your designs and make sure it’s easy to read, and you have a good chance of meeting this requirement.
Content
As with most Local Councils, MBJB prohibits signboard content that is:
- Offensive or inappropriate
- Irrelevant to the business it advertises
- Potentially misleading (such as closely resembling a government agency)
- Definitely misleading (such as using the term ‘Halal’ without certification)
Again, be reasonable with your design and it should be fine.
MBJB signboard fees
MBJB charges an annual license fee for signboards based on size and whether or not it is illuminated.
It varies by applicant, but you can refer to the 2010 MBJB Advertisement Bylaws for estimates.
| Type | Size | Minimum (RM) | Maximum (RM) |
| Unilluminated Signboard | Not exceeding 10 square meters | 50.00 | 300.00 |
| For every square meter or fraction thereof in excess of 10 square meters | 15.00 | 50.00 | |
| Illuminated Advertisement | Not exceeding 10 square meters | 50.00 | 260.00 |
| For every square meter or fraction thereof in excess of 10 square meters | 12.00 | 50.00 |
Of course, these are just signboard requirements – check out our overall MBJB business license guide for premise and document requirements.
Use MISHU’s signboard license application services
Our business license team has assisted literally hundreds of local and foreign business owners getting their premise and signboard license applications, and we’d be happy to add you to the list!