Kelowna Bylaw: Removing Illegal Campaign Signs

Elections and Campaign Finance British Columbia 4 Minutes Read · published May 26, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

In Kelowna, British Columbia, campaign signs must follow the City of Kelowna's sign rules and election-related restrictions. This guide explains where illegal or improperly placed campaign signs can be removed, who enforces the rules, and what to expect if a sign is taken down. It covers how to report signs, whether permits are required for election signage, and the practical steps candidates, volunteers and residents can take to avoid fines or removal. Use the official contacts and links below to file a complaint or check permit requirements before placing campaign signs.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces sign rules through its Bylaw Enforcement office and may remove or require removal of campaign signs that contravene local bylaws, obstruct visibility, or are placed on public property without permission. Specific fine amounts and escalation are not always posted verbatim on the public guidance pages; see the official complaint and signs pages for details and to confirm current amounts and rules.[1][2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat or daily continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders, immediate seizure of signs on public property, and requirement to rectify placement.
  • Enforcer: City of Kelowna Bylaw Enforcement (complaints accepted online or by phone).[1]
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: report by the City contact form or bylaw complaint page; enforcement inspects and issues orders or tickets as applicable.
  • Appeals/review: formal review or payment/appeal options are governed by the City’s bylaw/ticketing procedures; specific time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: exceptions may exist for permitted signs, emergency notices, or where written permission has been obtained; otherwise discretion rests with enforcement officers.
Bylaw officers can remove or order removal of signs on public property without notice in some cases.

Applications & Forms

Some permanent or commercial signs require a sign permit; temporary election signs placed on private property may still be subject to setback, size and safety rules. The City’s sign permit pages list application steps for regulated sign types; if no election-specific application is published, state guidance applies and no dedicated election form is listed on the cited pages.[2]

  • Sign permit: consult the City sign permit application page for permit name, purpose, fees and submission method; if not listed, no election-specific form is published.
  • Fees: not specified on the cited page for temporary election signs.
  • Deadlines: remove campaign signs by the end of the permitted post-election display period if specified by the City or election authority; exact days are not specified on the cited page.
When in doubt, get written permission from the property owner and check the City sign page before installing signs.

Where Signs May Be Removed

Signs are commonly removed when placed:

  • On public boulevards, sidewalks, medians or traffic islands where they obstruct sightlines or public access.
  • On utility poles, street signs, or infrastructure where placement is prohibited.
  • On private property without the owner’s consent, if an owner complains to the City.
  • Where signs present a safety hazard to pedestrians, cyclists, or motorists.

Action Steps: Report, Remove, Appeal

  1. Document the sign with photos showing location and any obstruction or damage.
  2. Report to City of Kelowna Bylaw Enforcement using the official complaint/contact page and include photos and exact address or nearest intersection.[1]
  3. If you are the candidate or campaign worker, remove or relocate the sign promptly to a permitted location and retain proof of permissions.
  4. If you receive a ticket or removal order, follow the instructions on the notice and consult the City’s ticket review/appeal procedure for time limits.
Keep copies of permissions and photos to support appeals or to prevent repeat removal.

FAQ

Can the City remove campaign signs on private property?
Yes, if the sign contravenes bylaws, creates a hazard, or the property owner requests removal; enforcement action depends on the situation and the City’s inspection.[1]
Are there fines for leaving signs up after an election?
Possibly; specific fine amounts or timelines for post-election removal are not specified on the cited pages—check the sign permit or election guidance pages for current details.[2]
Who do I contact to report a dangerous or illegally placed campaign sign?
Contact City of Kelowna Bylaw Enforcement via the official complaint/contact page and provide photos and location information.[1]

How-To

  1. Photograph the sign and note the exact location (address or nearest intersection).
  2. Check whether the sign is on private property with permission or on public land or infrastructure.
  3. Report the sign to City of Kelowna Bylaw Enforcement with photos and location details.[1]
  4. If you are responsible for the sign, remove it immediately or move it to a compliant location and keep documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • Always check City sign rules before installing campaign signs.
  • Report illegal or hazardous signs to Bylaw Enforcement with photos and location details.[1]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Kelowna - Bylaw Enforcement
  2. [2] City of Kelowna - Signs and Sign Permits

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