MPKJ Signboard License: A Guide for Kajang Area Business Owners
The Kajang district in Hulu Langat, Selangor, has grown rapidly into one of the Klang Valley's most vibrant commercial corridors. From the famous Kajang satay restaurants along Jalan Kelab to the university-driven economy of Bangi, the modern retail hubs of Semenyih, and the residential-commercial areas of Serdang and Beranang, thousands of businesses operate across this thriving region.
All businesses within the Majlis Perbandaran Kajang (MPKj) jurisdiction are required to obtain a signboard advertising permit before displaying any form of commercial signage. This guide covers everything you need to know. For a broader overview, see our complete guide to signboard licenses in Malaysia.
What Is an MPKj Signboard License?
An MPKj signboard license — officially called a Permit Iklan Papan Tanda — is a permit issued by Majlis Perbandaran Kajang that authorises a business to display advertising signage at its premises. This is separate from the business premises trade license (Lesen Tred) and must be applied for in addition to your business operating license.
The permit covers fascia signboards, projecting signs, awning signs, illuminated signs, lightbox signboards, neon signs, 3D lettering, and LED display panels. For larger structures such as billboards, MPKj requires a separate Permit Iklan Billboard.
Who Needs an MPKj Signboard License?
Any business displaying commercial signage within MPKj's administrative boundaries must hold a valid permit:
- Retail businesses — shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, hardware stores
- Food and beverage outlets — restaurants, cafes, bakeries, food courts
- Professional services — clinics, law firms, accounting offices
- Educational businesses — tuition centres, kindergartens, driving schools (especially near UKM and UNITEN in Bangi)
- Service and trade businesses — workshops, car washes, laundromats, printing shops
- Industrial premises — factories and warehouses in Kajang and Semenyih industrial areas
- Temporary advertising — buntings, banners, and promotional materials also require permits
Required Documents for MPKj Signboard License
Prepare the following documents before applying:
| No. | Document | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Permit Iklan Application Form | Available from MPKj counter or mpkj.gov.my |
| 2 | Applicant IC Copy | Business owner or director identity card |
| 3 | Passport-Sized Photograph | Recent passport photo of applicant |
| 4 | SSM Registration Documents | Form 9, 24, 49 (Sdn Bhd) or Form B/D (sole proprietor) |
| 5 | Tenancy Agreement or S&P | Proof of legal occupancy |
| 6 | Certificate of Fitness (CF/CCC) | Building compliance certificate |
| 7 | BOMBA Support Letter | Fire safety clearance from local BOMBA station |
| 8 | Location Plan | Map showing premises location |
| 9 | Premises Photographs | Colour photos of front, rear, side, and interior |
| 10 | Signboard Location Photos | Photos showing where signboard will be installed |
| 11 | Signboard Design Sample | Full-colour mockup with dimensions, colours, materials, fonts |
| 12 | Assessment Tax Receipt | Property tax (cukai taksiran) payment receipt |
| 13 | Valid Business Trade License | You must hold a valid MPKj Lesen Tred first |
Important: You must obtain your MPKj business trade license (Lesen Tred) first before applying for a signboard permit.
Signboard Design Rules and Restrictions
Bahasa Malaysia Language Requirements
- Business activity description must be in Bahasa Malaysia, positioned prominently
- BM text must be at least 30% larger than text in any other language
- BM text must be positioned above other language text
- SSM-registered English business names need not be translated, but activity description must always be in BM
Mandatory Signboard Content
- Business activity description in Bahasa Malaysia
- SSM-registered company name
- Ownership statement: "Dimiliki oleh: [Company Name] [SSM No.]"
- Business premises address
Size and Placement Rules
- Width must not exceed shop lot frontage
- Projecting signs: minimum ground clearance of 2.6 metres
- Must not obstruct pedestrian walkways, fire exits, or emergency access
- LED signboards must not create glare
- Signboards must be maintained in good condition
MPKj Signboard License Fee Structure
| Fee Category | Estimated Cost (RM) |
|---|---|
| Application Form | RM 5 |
| Processing Fee | RM 50 |
| Signboard Permit — Non-illuminated | RM 100 – RM 200 |
| Signboard Permit — Illuminated / Lightbox | RM 150 – RM 300 |
| Administrative Office Fee | RM 200 – RM 300 |
| BOMBA Fire Safety Certificate | RM 50 – RM 200 |
| Fire Extinguishers (2 units, certified) | RM 300 – RM 360 |
| Estimated Total (First Application) | RM 500 – RM 1,000 |
Note: Fees may vary. Billboard permits carry higher fees. The signboard permit must be renewed annually.
How to Apply for an MPKj Signboard License
Step 1: Obtain Your Trade License First
You must hold a valid MPKj business trade license (Lesen Tred) before applying for a signboard permit.
Step 2: Prepare Your Signboard Design
Create a compliant design with BM activity description, SSM details, ownership statement, correct language sizing, and address.
Step 3: Get BOMBA Fire Safety Clearance
Visit the local BOMBA office for a fire safety support letter. You will also need two certified fire extinguishers displaying your business address.
Step 4: Gather All Required Documents
Compile all documents listed above. Ensure colour photographs and clear copies.
Step 5: Submit Application
- Online via eLesen Portal: Register at the MPKj eLesen portal, upload documents, and submit digitally.
- Counter Submission: Visit Jabatan Pelesenan dan Penjaja at Menara MPKj.
Step 6: Pay Processing Fee
RM 50 processing fee plus RM 5 for the application form at counter.
Step 7: Await Inspection and Approval
MPKj officers review documents and may conduct a site inspection.
Step 8: Collect License and Install Signboard
After payment, collect your permit. Ensure the installed signboard matches the approved design exactly.
Processing Time
- Standard processing: 1 to 7 working days after all documents submitted
- Counter submission: Some cases approved within 1 to 2 working days
- Total timeline (including preparation): 1 to 3 weeks
Processing may be longer during peak periods (January-February).
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Compound fines from RM 300 to RM 5,000
- Forced removal of non-compliant signboards
- Up to RM 30,000 for severe or repeated violations
- Trade license complications affecting renewal
- Daily penalties for continued non-compliance after notice
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a trade license — MPKj requires valid Lesen Tred first
- Missing BOMBA clearance — mandatory for all applications
- BM text not prominent enough — must be 30% larger and positioned above
- Installing before approval — results in immediate fines and removal
- Blurry or black-and-white photos — colour photos required
- Missing ownership statement — "Dimiliki oleh:" frequently overlooked
- Not renewing on time — annual renewal required, submit 1 month before expiry
MPKj Contact Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Council Name | Majlis Perbandaran Kajang (MPKj) |
| Office Address | Menara MPKj, Jalan Cempaka Putih, Off Jalan Semenyih, 43000 Kajang, Selangor |
| Licensing Dept | Jabatan Pelesenan dan Penjaja |
| Phone | 03-8737 7899 |
| Toll-Free Hotline | 1-800-88-6755 |
| Complaints Email | aduan@mpkj.gov.my |
| eLesen Portal | MPKj eLesen |
| Official Website | mpkj.gov.my |
| Billboard Enquiries | multimedia@mpkj.gov.my, Ext. 7154/7015 |
Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Counter closes at 4:30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an MPKj signboard license online?
Yes. MPKj offers online applications through their eLesen portal. Register an account to submit documents, track applications, make payments, and print your license online.
Do I need a trade license before applying for a signboard permit?
Yes. MPKj requires a valid business trade license (Lesen Tred) before you can apply for a signboard advertising permit (Permit Iklan Papan Tanda).
How long does MPKj signboard license approval take?
With complete documentation and BOMBA clearance, 1 to 7 working days. Some straightforward cases approved within 1 to 2 days. Allow 1 to 3 weeks total including preparation.
What areas does MPKj cover?
MPKj administers the Hulu Langat district: Kajang, Bangi, Semenyih, Beranang, Serdang, Cheras Selatan, and surrounding areas.
How much does an MPKj signboard license cost?
Total first-time costs approximately RM 500 to RM 1,000, including processing fee, signboard permit, administrative fees, and BOMBA requirements. Annual renewal is lower. Contact MPKj at 03-8737 7899 for exact pricing.
Is BOMBA approval required for all signboard applications?
Yes. MPKj requires a BOMBA support letter and two certified fire extinguishers bearing your business address. Complete this step early in the process.
What if my signboard does not match the approved design?
MPKj enforcement can issue fines and order modification or removal. Always ensure the installed signboard matches the approved design exactly.
Get Your Signboard Made by Professionals
UMAKE is a signboard manufacturer based in Selangor specialising in council-compliant signboards for businesses across Kajang, Bangi, and Semenyih. From design to installation, we handle the complete process. Visit umake.my to get a quote today.