THE ACT Government is reminding political campaign teams to adhere to the Public Unleased Land (Moveable Signs) Code of Practice which regulates the placement of election signage in public places.

The Code outlines requirements such as design, placement, duration, safety and insurance of signage. These include:

• electoral advertising signs can only be displayed for the six weeks preceding the election date (which is from today, 21 May 2016)
• signage must be removed within 48 hours of the close of polls
• signs cannot obstruct infrastructure owned by ACTEW or the ACT Government, such as streetlights and traffic lights
• signage cannot require support from any other object
• stickers cannot be used.

“The ACT Government’s City rangers will undertake routine inspections of areas where signs are prohibited particularly designated areas and roundabouts in the lead up to the federal election in order to keep these areas clear from obstructions. These areas include main entry/exit roads and arterial roads including Limestone Avenue, Pialligo and Northbourne Avenue” said Fleur Flanery, Director, City Services.

“Signs need to be free standing and not pose line of sight, safety or access issues. Any signs attached or affixed to government property/assets will be removed. This includes signs attached to bridges, overpasses, trees, traffic lights, traffic control boxes and light poles.

“Signs that breach the Code may be removed and a collection fee and or infringement may be imposed for signs which do not comply with the Code.”

Ms Flanery urged candidates and their assistants to review the Code of Practice available at tams.act.gov.au