Candidates and registered third-party advertisers can post election signs under the provisions of City of Sarnia Sign By-Law #65 of 2014.
Candidates and registered third parties are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the by-law, as amended.
No Election sign shall be installed until the candidate has filed their nomination with the City Clerk for a municipal election.
Maximum number and size
The maximum number of signs permitted on each property is three.
The maximum area of a sign in a residential area is 0.5 square metres (0.5m2). In all other zoning categories the maximum area is 1.5 square metres (1.5m2).
General prohibitions
When installing signs, please be aware of the following prohibitions:
- No person shall erect or maintain an election sign on City property including but not limited to parks, recreational areas, public streets, sidewalks, boulevards and roundabouts.
- No person shall erect or maintain an election sign attached or supported by a structure not intended for this purpose, including but not limited to a tree, fence, light standard, or utility pole.
- No election sign shall be erected in a residential zone that is lit by artificial light which is direct, indirect, internal, or external to the sign.
- No election sign shall be placed where it may obstruct the view of any pedestrian or driver so as to cause an unsafe condition.
- Election signs are not permitted on any premises used as a voting place for elections.
Sign placement
Signs can not be placed on the City boulevard. In general, streetlights, fire hydrants, and hydro poles can be used as markers to guide compliance for sign placement. Signs should be placed behind (on the side away from the street) of these markers.
Removal of signs after Voting Day
Election signs shall be removed within seven days of the day on which the election is held.
Removal for non-compliance
Illegally placed signs will be removed by By-Law Enforcement staff.
Candidates and Registered Third Parties will not be notified by the City prior to the removal of a sign. Following the removal of a Candidate’s or Registered Third Parties’ election sign for the first time, the Candidate or Registered Third Party will be notified that a sign has been removed.
Signs that are removed are stored by the City for 10 days. The City will only contact the Candidate or Registered Third Party after the first offence to advise that sign(s) have been removed. If you believe sign(s) have been removed by Officers, please contact By-Law Enforcement.
Retrieval fees will be imposed in accordance with the City of Sarnia Fees for Services By-Law #60 of 2025.
Use of the City logo
Election signs shall not include the City Crest or Logo.
Questions and concerns
Questions and concerns about election signs should be directed to By-Law Enforcement at 519-332-0330 x3301 or bylawenforcement@sarnia.ca.