Consider it a sign the election is right around the corner.
Campaign signs are one of the most visible parts of an election. But putting them up isn’t a cut-and-dry operation. There are rules about how, when, and where they can go.
Our election office provides candidates with campaign sign regulations as part of their registration package.
Campaign signs on public property must follow the Neighbourhood Liveability By-law No. 1/2008, Part 4 and The Winnipeg Zoning By-law No. 200/2006, Section 182(1).
Let’s break down the by-laws ahead of the 2026 Municipal Council and School Boards Election.
1. Signs can only be up for a designated period
Campaign signs are allowed on private property any time after a candidate registers. They can’t be on public property before August 26.
They must be taken down seven days after election day. That means candidates must remove them all by November 4.
2. There are places signs aren’t allowed
We want to make sure people are safe when walking or driving around the city. Signs can’t pose a safety risk, be attached to street signs or traffic signals, or block them.
They should never be placed on trees or other places that could damage property along the street.
They’re not allowed on any medians or traffic islands.
They can go on some roads, but they’re prohibited on either part or all of 30 major roadways. The rules also specify how close a sign can be to an intersection, turning lane, sidewalk, curb, and private access.
They can’t be on public or private property within 50 metres of a voting location during voting hours.
3. What a sign looks like matters
While campaign signs can be used to get people’s attention, they can’t spin, rotate, illuminate, or be electrified.
They also can’t be supported by string, rope, wire or metal stakes.
4. Every sign must have a few key details on it
Even if signs are for different candidates, they all must include a few of the same things:
- The name and phone number of the person responsible for placing the sign
- The date the sign was placed
5. We investigate sign concerns
We are watching to make sure all signs follow all the rules – and Winnipeggers like you have a role to play in that watch.
Please contact 311 if you have any questions about campaign signs or want to report any infractions or concerns.
We may remove and destroy signs that don’t follow the regulations.
The full list of sign regulations can be found on our election website.
Remember, Election Day is October 28
Votes will be cast for the offices of Mayor, Councillor, and School Trustee on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Advance voting begins in early October.
Remember to check the voters list now to make sure your information is correct. You have until August 26 to make any changes. If you missed that deadline, and meet the eligibility requirements, you can still vote. You will have to take an oath before casting your ballot. Make sure to also bring your identification.
Being on the list means you are registered to vote and we’ll mail you a voter’s notice in the fall. Make sure to take it with you when you vote because it will streamline the process for you.
Learn more about the election
The election is the largest single-day customer service initiative we deliver. Sherwood Armbruster, our Senior Election Official, joined Our City, Our Podcast in January to discuss what goes on behind the scenes leading up to Election Day.
You can listen in the player below or wherever you get your podcasts.