It is important that all registered candidates who participate in an election understand and comply with The City of Calgary
Temporary Signs on Highways Bylaw 29M97. If any signs are found in contravention, the candidate shall be held responsible for any fines levied.
This is a brief overview of the bylaw. Please refer ot the actual bylaw for more detailed information. Original copies of the bylaw are available at the City Clerk's office.
During municipal, provincial and federal elections, exemptions for election signage as stated in the Temporary Signs on Highways Bylaw are put in place. Election signs must comply with all other requirements, including sign placement as outlined in this bylaw.
Overview of the Temporary Signs on Highways Bylaw
Signs on private property
- You must obtain the home owner's permission before placing a sign on their property.
- You are encouraged to obtain the home owner's permission before placing a sign adjacent to their property. More information can be found in theGood Neighbour Practices Reference Guide.
- Signs must be removed no later than 36 hours after the polls close.
Signs on municipal property
An election sign is not legal if it:
- Is closer than 30 metres to any intersection.
- Is closer than two metres from the curb or edge of the road.
- Is placed on any traffic island or centre median.
- Obstructs any traffic control device or creates a traffic or pedestrian hazard.
- Is attached to a street light pole, traffic signal pole or and City sign pole (except for posters).
- Could be a hazard to either the person erecting the sign, or any member of the public.
- Exceeds three square metres.
- Is attached to a sound wall.
- Is lit, electrified or inflatable.
- Is permanently affixed.
- Is supported by string, rope, metal stakes or wire.
- Damages municipal property.
- Becomes unsightly.
- Is placed within 10 metres of a crosswalk that is not at an intersection.
- Is placed on a fire hydrant.
- Is attached on or within a plus 15 bridge.
- Is erected in anyProhibited or Restricted Roadways.
- Is not removed later than 36 hours after the polls close.
Fines for violations of these regulations range between $50 and $200.
Signs and parks
According to the Parks and Pathways Bylaw 20M2003, section 25, no person shall, other than where authorized pursuant to this Bylaw, place a sign of any kind, commercial or otherwise, in a Park.
Filing a complaint
To report a bylaw violation please choose one of the following options:
