What you need to know
During a municipal election, you can put up campaign signs and run election advertisements to let voters know how you plan to vote. All signs and ads must follow the rules in Election Sign By-law 2025-108 and the Municipal Elections Act, 1996. These rules keep our streets safe and make sure every candidate has a fair chance to share their message with the community.
Sign rules
When you place a campaign sign, follow these requirements to avoid fines or having your sign removed:
- Maximum size: 0.9 square metres. This is roughly the size of a large poster board or a small window sign.
- Placement: Keep signs at least two metres from the curb, away from traffic signals, intersections, utility poles, and fire hydrants.
- Surface: Signs must be temporary. Do not nail, screw, or glue them to trees, hydro poles, fences, or any public property.
- Removal: You must take down all signs within 48 hours after the election results are posted. Place them in your regular garbage or recycling bin. Do not leave them on the ground, in parks, or in the ravine.
For a full list of where signs are allowed or restricted, visit Sign bylaws and standards.
Election advertising rules
Election advertising includes signs, flyers, radio spots, newspaper ads, and posts on social media that support or oppose a candidate or ballot question. If you spend more than $10.00 on election advertising, you must file a Statement of Election Expenses form with the City Clerk by December 26, 2026. Candidates must also follow strict spending limits set by provincial law.
Third-party advertisers who spend more than $10.00 must also register and file reports. For step-by-step guidance on how to track your spending and file your forms, see Information for candidates.
Fines and enforcement
The City enforces sign rules to keep our streets clear and our parks tidy. If you break the rules, you may receive a fine:
- $100.00 for a first offence
- $250.00 for a second offence
The Wrenford Police Service does not enforce election sign by-laws. By-law officers handle violations, but they can ask police to assist if a situation becomes unsafe. To report a sign that is blocking a sidewalk, too close to an intersection, or left up after election day, contact us at By-law Enforcement or call 311.
Need help or have questions?
Visit Sign permits and applications for printable templates, placement maps, and recycling tips. For questions about election advertising, email [email protected] or call 519-555-0100.