The County of Prince Edward is reminding the public that tampering with election signs is illegal and will not be tolerated.
Election signs are regulated under the County’s Election Sign By-law 38-2026. Removing, damaging, defacing, relocating, obstructing, stealing, or otherwise interfering with an election sign without lawful authority is prohibited and may result in enforcement action or criminal charges.
“Stealing or defacing election signs isn’t a prank. It’s a violation of the law,” says Tanya Doolan, Interim Supervisor of By-law Services. “Respect the democratic process, respect the law, and leave campaign signs untouched.”
Residents are also reminded that entering private property to remove, damage, or interfere with an election sign is unlawful and may result in charges under the Trespass to Property Act.
If an election sign has been placed on private property without the property owner’s permission, the property owner should contact the candidate’s campaign directly and request that the sign be removed.
Members of the public should not remove or alter election signs themselves unless they have lawful authority to do so.
Anyone who witnesses election sign tampering is encouraged to report it to By-law Enforcement Services at bylaw@pecounty.on.ca or the Ontario Provincial Police by calling 1-888-310-1122.
Reports may also be submitted by email to elections@pecounty.on.ca or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS (8477) or online at stopcrimehere.ca
Protect the integrity of the election process. Respect all campaign materials and report any suspected violations.