Some pre-election campaigning allowed

While Prince Edward Island's provincial election has not been officially called, it seems as if some campaigning has begun.

Election brochures seeking support are showing up in mailboxes.

Candidates are going door to door to speak with potential voters. 

But how much campaigning can be done is limited. 

Gary McLeod is the Chief Electoral Officer for P.E.I. He said provincial legislation sets limits on what candidates and political parties can do outside the official campaign period. 

"I think it's just to regulate and limit the amount that the general public want to hear," said McLeod.

"The more the ads are out there, people would become complacent with a lot of the messages that are being passed on." 

McLeod confirmed candidates can go door-to-door. 

They can advertise for volunteers or announce the location of their headquarters.

But what they can't do is place advertisements that directly promote the election of a registered candidate, or oppose another candidate.

The provincial legislation is clear on what can be put in newspapers, broadcast and on billboard advertising. It does not cover brochures that are being delivered to residences. 

McLeod said he believes the spirit of the law is meant to keep brochures in check until the election period begins but, the law's not written that way. 

The act covering election advertising hasn't been updated in almost two decades. In addition to the circulation of brochures, there are other grey areas, around social media and internet sites. 

In the meantime, brochures will continue to be circulated and door to door visits will continue while the poliitical parties await the official election announcement.