The City of Owen Sound is preparing to update its rules for election signs ahead of the municipal election on October 26, 2026. City Council issued a notice on April 28, 2026, announcing its intention to amend the existing by-law, with a formal vote set for May 11, 2026.
The proposed changes, detailed in a report approved by council on April 13, 2026, come as officials adjust local rules to reflect recent legal rulings. An Ontario Superior Court decision last year found that setting specific time limits on when candidates can display election signs is an unjustified infringement on freedom of expression. As a result, the city is moving to update its regulations.
Under current rules, signs are restricted to a maximum area of 1.5 square metres and a height of 1.22 metres, including their mounts. Candidates are also required to remove all signs within 72 hours after voting day. Placement is prohibited on most public property, with exceptions for road allowances, provided signs are kept a safe distance from intersections, driveways, fire hydrants, and sidewalks.
The upcoming changes also address the timing of when signs can be posted. Council has agreed to allow election signs to be displayed starting August 25, 2026, which is the day after the official certification of candidates. Nominations for the upcoming election open on May 1, 2026, and will close on August 21, 2026.
The final vote on the by-law amendment will take place at 5:30 p.m. on May 11, 2026, at City Hall, located at 808 2nd Avenue East. Residents or candidates with questions regarding the proposed rules may contact City Clerk Briana Bloomfield at 519-376-4440 extension 1247.
