Signboard License in Selayang: A Practical Guide for Business Owners
If your business is located in Selayang, Batu Caves, Rawang, Gombak, Kepong (MPS area), or anywhere within the Majlis Perbandaran Selayang (MPS) jurisdiction, you need a valid signboard license before displaying any business signage. MPS is one of the busiest municipal councils in Selangor, covering a wide area that stretches from the commercial districts of Kepong and Selayang up through the residential townships of Gombak, the temple precinct of Batu Caves, and the rapidly developing areas around Rawang.
This area is home to thousands of small and medium businesses, from traditional shophouses along Jalan Selayang to modern shop-lots in Rawang's new developments. Every one of these businesses that displays a signboard must hold a valid Lesen Papan Iklan from MPS. This guide explains exactly what you need, what it costs, and how to get it done efficiently.
For a broader overview of signboard licensing across the country, read our complete guide to signboard licenses in Malaysia.
What Is the MPS Signboard License?
The MPS signboard license (Lesen Papan Iklan / Lesen Iklan Premis) is a mandatory annual permit that authorises you to display business signage within the MPS area. It is governed by the Local Government Act 1976 (Act 171), the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133), the Uniform Building By-Laws 1984, and MPS's own advertising by-laws.
The license covers all types of premise signboards including fascia boards, lightbox signs, 3D box-up lettering, awning prints, wall-mounted signs, and projecting signs. Outdoor billboards, bunting, and temporary advertising require separate permits from MPS's External Signboard Section (Bahagian Papan Iklan Luaran).
Who Needs a Signboard License in the MPS Area?
You need this license if you:
- Open a new business in any MPS area and plan to display a signboard
- Change or replace an existing signboard with a new design, size, or material
- Add illuminated signage such as LED signs, neon signs, or lightbox panels
- Modify signboard text, including changing your business name or adding new languages
- Relocate your business within the MPS jurisdiction
This covers every business type: retail, F&B, services, clinics, workshops, tuition centres, factories, and warehouses. If it is visible from a public road or walkway, it needs a license.
Required Documents for MPS Signboard License
MPS requires the following documents for a new signboard license application. Incomplete submissions are the number one reason for delays, so double-check everything before you visit the counter.
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| SSM Business Registration | Copy of Forms 9, 24, and 49 (Sdn Bhd) or Form D (sole proprietor/partnership). Must be current and not expired |
| Valid Business Premise License | Copy of your existing MPS business premise license (Lesen Premis Perniagaan) |
| DBP Language Verification | Approval letter from Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka confirming correct Bahasa Malaysia text. Apply online at dbpsahbahasa.my |
| Signboard Design Visual | A4-sized coloured mockup showing the signboard design with exact measurements in metres, font sizes, colours, and material type |
| Premises Photographs | Coloured photos of the premises exterior and interior, adjacent shop lots, and the proposed signboard installation location |
| Tenancy Agreement / S&P | Copy of current rental agreement or Sale and Purchase Agreement for the premises |
| Landlord Consent Letter | Written permission from the building owner or JMB authorising the signboard installation |
| Location Plan | Map or plan showing your premises location within the commercial area |
| Applicant IC Copy | Copy of the applicant or company director's MyKad/passport |
| Passport Photo | Passport-sized photo of the applicant |
Additional conditions: Your premises must have valid planning approval (Development Order) from MPS's Planning Department, a valid building plan approval and CF/TCF from Building Control, and meet fire safety requirements from the Fire Department for buildings above the ground floor.
Signboard Design Rules for MPS Area
MPS enforces standard Selangor signboard design guidelines. Here are the rules you must follow:
Bahasa Malaysia Language Rules
- Bahasa Malaysia must appear on every signboard, either alone or alongside other languages
- BM text must be at least 30% larger than any other language text on the signboard
- BM text must occupy the most prominent visual position (top or left side)
- Business activity must be described in BM (e.g., "RESTORAN", "PUSAT TUISYEN", "BENGKEL KERETA") and appear larger than the business name
- All Malay language text must be verified by DBP before submission to MPS
Mandatory Information on Signboard
- Business activity description in BM (top portion)
- Company or business name
- Business premise address
- SSM ownership statement: "Dimiliki oleh:" followed by the registered company name and registration number
- License reference number displayed at the bottom left of the signboard (added after approval)
- Registered company name displayed at the bottom right
Design Restrictions
- Signboard must not cover more than 30% of the building facade
- Must not obstruct pedestrian walkways, five-foot ways, drainage, or road visibility
- Must not create safety hazards or block emergency exits
- No offensive, politically sensitive, or misleading content
- Illuminated signs must have proper electrical certification
- All logos and trademarks must be registered with MyIPO
Signboard License Fees for MPS Selayang
MPS signboard license fees are calculated based on the signboard size (in square metres) and whether the signboard is illuminated. Below are estimated annual fee ranges based on standard Selangor council rates.
| Signboard Type | Estimated Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Non-illuminated signboard (up to 5 sqm) | RM80 - RM120 |
| Non-illuminated signboard (above 5 sqm) | RM120 + RM10 per additional sqm |
| Illuminated signboard (up to 8 sqm) | RM120 - RM180 |
| Illuminated signboard (above 8 sqm) | RM180 + RM15 per additional sqm |
| Projecting / double-sided sign | RM100 - RM200 |
| Processing fee | RM50 |
| Printing fee | RM50 |
Important: The license fee must be paid within 14 days of receiving approval. These are estimated rates. For the exact current fee schedule, contact the MPS Licensing Department directly. The total cost including agent fees, DBP submission, and document preparation typically ranges from RM800 to RM1,500 for a new application.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
- Design your signboard - Engage a professional signboard manufacturer to create a design that meets all MPS requirements. Ensure all mandatory elements (BM text, business activity, SSM details, address) are included in the correct sizes and positions
- Get DBP language verification - Register and submit your design at dbpsahbahasa.my. Processing takes 3 to 5 working days. Print the approval letter once verified
- Compile all documents - Gather SSM registration, business license, tenancy agreement, landlord consent letter, premises photos, location plan, IC copy, and passport photo
- Submit application at MPS counter - Visit the Licensing Department at Menara MPS, Bandar Baru Selayang. Submit your complete application with all supporting documents. You may also check the MPS website for online submission options via the MPS Licensing portal
- Site verification - MPS officers will visit your premises to check the proposed signboard location and ensure compliance with by-laws
- Receive approval and pay fees - Once approved, pay the license fee within 14 days at the MPS counter or through the MyMPS online payment portal
- Install your signboard - Proceed with installation only after receiving your license. Display the license reference number on the signboard as required
- Renew annually - The signboard license must be renewed every year alongside your business premise license
Processing Time
New signboard license applications at MPS typically take 2 to 4 weeks to process, assuming all documents are complete and the design is compliant. Add 3 to 5 working days for the DBP verification step before submission.
Applications that require design amendments or additional documents can take 4 to 6 weeks. During peak renewal season (October to December), processing times may be longer due to high volume. Plan to start the process at least 6 weeks before your planned installation date.
Penalties for Not Having a Signboard License
MPS actively enforces signboard regulations across its jurisdiction, including operations to demolish illegal outdoor billboards. Penalties include:
- Compound fines of RM500 to RM2,000 for operating a signboard without a license
- Higher fines up to RM50,000 for serious or repeat offences under the Local Government Act
- Forced removal of illegal signboards at the owner's expense
- Business license implications as signboard violations can affect your premise license renewal
- Reinstatement costs if your signboard is removed and you need to redesign, reapply, and reinstall
MPS has been known to conduct enforcement operations targeting illegal outdoor billboards and unlicensed premise signboards. It is always more cost-effective to comply from the start.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting DBP approval - Every signboard with BM text needs verification. This is non-negotiable for MPS
- BM text not prominent enough - The 30% larger rule is measured precisely. Ensure your designer calculates this correctly
- Missing business activity description - Stating "AHMAD ENTERPRISE" is not enough. You need "KEDAI PERALATAN PEJABAT" or equivalent BM description of what the business does
- No SSM details on signboard - The "Dimiliki oleh:" line with registration number is mandatory
- Submitting without a valid business license - You must have an active MPS business premise license before applying for a signboard license
- Not getting landlord consent - Even if you own your unit in a strata building, you need JMB approval for external signage
- Incorrect measurements - Design mockups must show measurements in square metres, not feet
MPS Contact Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Majlis Perbandaran Selayang (MPS) |
| Address | Menara MPS, Persiaran 3, Bandar Baru Selayang, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor |
| General Line | 03-6126 5800 |
| Toll-Free Line | 1800 222 677 |
| Fax | 03-6138 8933 |
| aduanmps@mps.gov.my | |
| Official Website | www.mps.gov.my |
| Licensing Portal | MPS Licensing Services |
| Operating Hours | Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on weekends and public holidays) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas fall under MPS jurisdiction for signboard licenses?
MPS covers Selayang, Batu Caves, Rawang, Gombak, Kepong (MPS area), Bandar Baru Selayang, Taman Selayang, and surrounding areas. Some parts of Kepong fall under DBKL jurisdiction instead, so check your exact location with MPS if you are unsure.
Can I apply for a signboard license online with MPS?
MPS has been progressively moving services online. Check the MPS website at mps.gov.my for current online application options. Some services may still require in-person submission at the Menara MPS counter, particularly for new applications that require physical document verification.
How much does an MPS signboard license cost?
The council fee depends on signboard size and type. For a standard non-illuminated shop signboard up to 5 sqm, expect around RM80 to RM120 per year. Illuminated signboards cost more, starting from around RM120 to RM180. With agent and preparation fees, total costs range from RM800 to RM1,500 for new applications.
Do I need both a business license and signboard license?
Yes. They are separate licenses. You must have a valid MPS business premise license before you can apply for a signboard license. Both must be renewed annually.
What happens if my signboard does not comply after installation?
MPS can issue a notice requiring you to rectify the non-compliance within a specified period. Failure to comply can result in fines and forced removal of the signboard at your expense. This is why it is critical to get the design right before installation.
Can my signboard be in Chinese or Tamil only?
No. Bahasa Malaysia must appear on every commercial signboard in Malaysia. You can include Chinese, Tamil, English, or other languages, but the BM text must be at least 30% larger and positioned more prominently than any other language.
Get Your Signboard Done Right in Selayang
A professionally designed signboard that meets all MPS requirements from the start saves you time, money, and hassle. At UMAKE, we design and manufacture signboards that comply with all local council regulations, including MPS-specific requirements. Whether you need 3D box-up lettering, lightbox panels, or acrylic signage, we can handle the design, fabrication, and help guide you through the licensing process.
Get a free quote from UMAKE for your signboard project. You may also find our guides for MBDK Klang and MPAJ Ampang Jaya useful if you have multiple branches.