Campaign Signage and Election Advertising
Campaign Signage and Election Advertising
Media Release: Friday, February 14, 2020
Elections Nova Scotia – Now that by-elections are underway in the electoral districts of Cape Breton Centre and Truro-Bible Hill-Millbrook-Salmon River, people in those areas may see campaign signs or be asked to place a sign on their property.
All advertising, by candidates, parties or third parties, 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]”.
The Elections Act requires that election 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. 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.
Third party advertising is election advertising by a group or individual who is not directly involved in the election. Third party advertising includes any advertising paid for by a third party 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. Individuals, groups, or organizations paying for election advertising must register with Elections Nova Scotia as a third party within seven days of incurring election advertising expenses of $500 or more. Third party advertising must also indicate who has sponsored the ad.
It is important to beware that knowingly spreading false statements about a candidate’s character or conduct during an election is an offence under the Elections Act.
Watch for updates at electionsnovascotia.ca, on Twitter @electionsns and our Facebook page facebook.com/electionsnovascotia.
Contact: Naomi Shelton
Director, Policy and Communications
Elections Nova Scotia
902-424-3275 or 902-223-4871