Election or political signs

There are different rules that regulate the display of election or political signs in the lead up to elections on private property or Council land.

• Find out what signs can be displayed, whether you need a permit, or if something is prohibited.
• Please ensure you are familiar with the requirements before any signage is displayed.

Private property

The following requirements apply to private land and are regulated under the provisions of the Bayside Planning Scheme. Any political or election signage that is contrary to the specific requirements below may be subject to fines and enforcement action under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.

All election or political signs

(including but not limited to placard signs, signs on fences, signs in front gardens, signs in windows, signs on stationary vehicles or trailers)

• No larger than five square metres (each side)
• No more than one sign on the land
• Must not be displayed for longer than three months in total
• Must be removed no later than 14 days after the election is held

If you meet this requirement there is no permit is needed.

You can apply for a planning permit for signage that does not meet these requirements. It will be subject to the provisions of the Bayside Planning Scheme.

Council land

The following requirements apply to Council land which includes parks, reserves, roads, parking bays, footpaths, nature strips and the likes. Any political or election signage that is contrary to the specific requirements below may be impounded and you may be subject to fines under the Local Laws and relevant legislation.

Mobile billboards

(including an advertising sign that is constructed to be part of a vehicle or trailer)

• A local laws permit is required

All other election or political advertising signs

• A local laws permit is required

Bill posters

(including posters and loose flyers in car windscreens, and the likes)

• Prohibited

These are considered littering and will be dealt with under the provisions of the Environment Protection Act 2017

For more information, contact the Customer Service team on 9599 4444 or apply for a planning permit or local laws permit.