Do election posters follow the same rules?

Election posters are handled under the same municipal by-law plus the Electoral Code, and there are firm removal deadlines after voting day.

Can I put an A-frame on the pavement outside my shop?

Only where the by-law allows it, and usually with a minimum clear walking width. Some CBDs prohibit them entirely.

What about signs on my own fence?

Small signs on private property are often exempt, but size limits still apply and estate agent boards usually have their own rules.

Who gets fined for an illegal poster?

The advertiser whose event or contact number appears on it, not the person who put it up.

Business & Trading

Temporary Signage Permit

In plain English

A temporary signage permit covers short-term advertising — banners, A-frames, election and event posters, estate agent boards, construction hoarding and pavement signs — under your municipality's outdoor advertising by-law.

View requirements Visit official website

Who needs this permit

Event organisers, estate agents, retailers, schools, churches, political parties and contractors putting up short-term signs in public view.

When is it required

Before the signs go up. By-law officers remove unauthorised posters and bill the advertiser named on them.

Eligibility

The sign class is permitted in that area
You have the property owner's consent where the sign is on private property
The sign does not obstruct sight lines, pavements or traffic signals

Documents you need before applying

Completed temporary signage or poster application
Sign artwork with dimensions
List of proposed positions or poles
Landowner consent where applicable
Refundable removal deposit in many municipalities

Download a printable checklist

A one-page PDF of everything you need to bring with you. Tick items off before you go.

How to apply — step by step

1
Check the poster rules for your city
Cities cap the number of posters, set minimum heights above the pavement and ban signs on traffic signal poles, bridges and heritage structures.
2
Apply and pay the deposit
The deposit is refunded once you prove the posters have been taken down on time.
3
Number and display the posters correctly
Many by-laws require each poster to carry the permit number and the advertiser's contact details.
4
Remove everything by the deadline
Removal is usually required within 3 to 7 days after the event or election date.
5
Claim the deposit back
Submit the removal confirmation to the signage unit to release the deposit.