Hamilton shop owners who place sandwich boards out on pavements could face a steep fine, the Corporation of Hamilton warned.

The corporation issued the advisory after seeing the signs pop up around the city, particularly on Queen Street.

A spokeswoman said: “While these signs are often intended to attract customers, they can impede the flow of pedestrian traffic and, most concerningly, create serious accessibility challenges for wheelchair users and parents with strollers.”

The Advertisements Regulation Act 1911 prohibits sandwich boards and similar signage on public streets.

The Hamilton Traffic and Sidewalk Ordinance 1988 further prohibits placing or attaching signage to corporation property, including sidewalks, without permission.

Section 28 of the ordinance also prohibits putting anything, either partially or wholly, onto the sidewalk that could obstruct or endanger pedestrians.

Businesses found in breach of any of these regulations could face $720 for an initial offence and $144 for every day it continues.

Unlawful signs could also be removed at the owner’s expense.

Businesses who wish to use sandwich boards may only do so on private property, such as under a veranda or within the boundaries of the business’s premises.

Dwayne Caines, chief executive corporation, said: “Keeping Hamilton’s sidewalks safe and accessible is a shared responsibility.

“We value the creativity and energy our businesses bring to the city, but public spaces must remain open and welcoming for everyone.

“Together, we can preserve the city’s charm, safety and accessibility for all users.”