The Municipality of Chatham-Kent is reminding candidates and residents about the rules for placing election campaign signs near roadways.
As of Aug. 27, 2026, candidates are allowed to place campaign signs on certain municipal property. All signs must follow the Municipality’s Election Campaign Sign By-law.
Municipal staff are monitoring sign placement and responding to concerns reported by the public. When a sign is found in the wrong location, staff contact the candidate to explain the issue and ask that it be corrected. Signs will be removed if they are not brought into compliance with the by-law.
The rules are in place to help keep roads and sidewalks safe, make sure drivers and pedestrians can see clearly, protect municipal property and ensure the same rules apply to all candidates.
All candidates have been informed that during the campaign period, signs can be placed on the boulevard between a sidewalk and private property, as long as the sign is at least four metres, or about 13 feet, from the road or a driveway, and the adjoining property owner has given permission.
Signs cannot be placed between sidewalks and the road, called the outer boulevard under the by-law. Signs also cannot be placed near intersections or other locations as this could block a driver’s or pedestrian’s view. There are other sign restrictions within the by-law, but these rules regarding signs close to the road are resulting in concerns and will require enforcement action if candidates do not address these.
Candidates must review the Election Campaign Sign By-law and make sure campaign staff and volunteers understand the rules before putting up signs.
Residents who have concerns about the location of an election sign are asked to report them through the Municipality’s Customer Service team. Concerns can be reported by calling 3-1-1, emailing ck311@chatham-kent.ca or using the Municipality’s online service request system.
The Municipality appreciates the cooperation of candidates, campaign teams, and residents in helping keep election sign placement safe and consistent across Chatham-Kent.
