Election sign rules

There are rules about the placement and use of campaign signs.

When can signs be up

Election signs can’t be installed more than 29 days before a municipal election. Signs must be removed within 48 hours after election day.

Where are signs allowed

Election signs can be placed on private property if they follow the City’s Sign By-law. Signs can also be displayed at a candidate’s campaign office if they meet the by-law requirements.

Where are signs not allowed

Election signs are not allowed:

On public property
On utility poles or light standards, unless they are attached to an approved poster sleeve
On traffic signs or other official signs
Near intersections where they could block visibility
Within 50 metres of a polling station
Anywhere they could block the view of drivers or pedestrians
Anywhere they create a safety hazard
On noise barrier walls made of concrete or masonry

Report a concern about an election sign

To report an election sign you think may not follow the by-law:

Call 311 (905-615-4311 outside city limits)
Submit an online service request

You will need to provide:

Location of the sign
Name of the candidate, if known
Description of the sign
A photo, if available
Why you believe the sign may not follow the rules

Do not remove or move election signs yourself.

What happens next

City staff review all reported concerns. If a sign does not comply with the by-law, the City may remove it and take further enforcement action when necessary.

When City crews remove an illegally placed election sign, a storage fee of $20 per sign, per day applies if a candidate wishes to retrieve it.

City crews also proactively patrol Mississauga to identify and remove illegally placed election signs.