Elections Nova Scotia

Campaign Signage and other Election Advertising

Release date: 
May 1, 2017

Campaign Signage and other Election Advertising
May 1, 2017

Elections Nova Scotia – Now that we are in a provincial election you may begin to see campaign signs around your neighbourhood or have people asking if you would like to place one on your property. The Elections Act requires that such advertising is at least 60 metres away from any voting location. In addition, placement of signs is subject to provincial and municipal laws and regulations.

Much like any homeowner, the Elections Act allows a tenant or owner in a multiple-unit residence or a condominium residence to post election signs on their own property. The size and type of poster may be subject to reasonable regulation by the landlord or condominium corporation.

All advertising which promotes or opposes any candidate or registered party or takes a position on an issue with which a candidate or registered party is associated, is election advertising. 

Election advertising by candidates and parties must bear the words “authorized by the official agent for [name of candidate or registered party]”.

A third party shall identify itself in any election advertising placed by it and indicate that it has authorized the advertising.  

In the Halifax Regional Municipality, people with questions about the placement of election signs should call 311. Municipal rules may vary; please check with the municipal authority in your area if you have concerns. Areas along highways, including some within municipalities, are managed by the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. People who have questions about signs along highways may call a toll-free number 1-844-696-7737 or
email tir-occ@novascotia.ca.

The following (in italics) is information for HRM residents only, and is posted at the request of HRM Traffic Management:

"As per By-Law S-801, Election Signs are not permitted in HRM Right of Way until the day a writ of election is issued.
Election Signs are not permitted on Municipal Property except as specifically provided for under By Law S-801. Signs must not obstruct the view of traffic. Also, signs must not be installed on utility poles or street trees. All signs should be removed within one week following the election. Further information can be found at http://www.halifax.ca/election/signage.php.
Please note that signs posing a safety hazard will be removed immediately at the cost of the candidate.
Questions or complaints about Election Signs on HRM Property can be directed to 311."

Watch for updates at electionsnovascotia.ca, on Twitter @electionsns and our Facebook page facebook.com/electionsnovascotia.

Contact:       Andy LeBlanc
                    Director, Policy and Communications
                    Elections Nova Scotia
                    902-424-3275
                    andy.leblanc@novascotia.ca

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