Campaign Sign Rules & Time Limits - Surrey Bylaw

Surrey, British Columbia regulates campaign signs through municipal sign and election rules that govern when signs may be posted, where they can be placed, and how long they remain after voting. Candidates and campaign teams must follow local bylaw requirements to avoid enforcement actions and ensure public safety and clear sightlines. This guide summarizes the typical time limits, placement restrictions, permissions, and practical steps to comply with Surrey rules during municipal, provincial or federal campaigns in the city.

When you may erect campaign signs

Generally, campaign signs are permitted only during designated election periods and must not be attached to public assets such as traffic signs, utility poles, or street furniture unless specific permission is granted. Candidates should check timelines for municipal, provincial and federal elections and remove signage promptly after the election.

Placement rules and common restrictions

Placement rules protect traffic safety, sightlines, sidewalks and public property. Typical restrictions that apply in Surrey include prohibitions on signs that obstruct visibility at intersections, signs placed on City-owned property without authorization, and signs that block pedestrian movement or ramps. Private property placement usually requires the landowner's consent.

• Signs must not obstruct driver sightlines at intersections or access points.
• Signs are generally prohibited on traffic signs, poles, traffic islands and bus shelters.
• Signs on private property require owner permission; signs on City land require authorization.
• Temporary placement is limited to the official election period and a short removal window after voting.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by the City of Surrey By-law Enforcement (or the designated municipal enforcement office). Exact monetary fines, escalation steps and non-monetary sanctions depend on the controlling bylaw and are stated in the municipal enforcement documents or the consolidated sign bylaw where published.

• Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
• Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences may be treated differently; ranges and per-day continuing fines are not specified on the cited page.
• Non-monetary sanctions: the City may issue removal orders, seize signs on public property, or seek court orders for compliance as provided by the applicable bylaw.
• Enforcer: By-law Enforcement (City of Surrey) handles inspections, complaints and tickets; complaints are submitted via the City enforcement contact channels.
• Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits depend on the enforcement notice and the applicable bylaw; specific appeal periods are not specified on the cited page.
• Defences and discretion: reasonable excuse, permits, or variances may be considered where the bylaw or a permit process allows exceptions.

Applications & Forms

Where the City requires permits or written authorization for signs on public property, the permit name, form number, fee and submission method are published by the City of Surrey. If no specific form is required for ordinary election signs on private property, candidates must still obtain property owner consent. For City-managed placements, candidates should contact By-law Enforcement or the City department listed in the Help and Support section.

Action steps for candidates

• Confirm the official election period and removal deadline for the relevant election.
• Obtain written permission from private landowners before placing signs on private property.
• Contact By-law Enforcement before placing signs on City property to request written authorization if needed.
• Inspect sign locations for sightline and pedestrian safety compliance; relocate or remove non-compliant signs immediately.

FAQ

When can I put up campaign signs in Surrey?

Signs may only be placed during the applicable election period and must be removed within the time the City specifies after voting ends; verify exact dates with the City prior to posting.

Can I place signs on public property or utility poles?

No, signs on City-owned assets like poles, traffic signs, benches and shelters are generally prohibited unless you have written City authorization.

What happens if my sign is in the roadway or blocks sightlines?

The City may issue a removal order or ticket and may remove the sign; comply immediately to avoid further enforcement.

How-To

1. Confirm the election schedule and official sign posting and removal windows with the City of Surrey.
2. Map proposed sign locations and check for City-owned property, corners, crosswalks and bus stops to avoid prohibited sites.
3. Obtain written permission from any private landowner before placing signs on private property and keep a copy of that permission.
4. Remove all campaign signage within the required removal period after the election and dispose of materials responsibly.

Key Takeaways

• Follow official posting and removal windows to avoid enforcement.
• Do not place signs on City property or traffic control devices without written permission.
• Keep written property-owner permission and evidence of compliance.

Help and Support / Resources

• City of Surrey - By-law Enforcement
• City of Surrey - Planning & Development
• City of Surrey - Municipal Elections