An Ottawa man wants the city to change its adopt-a-roadway policy to exclude political groups, after the riding association of the federal Conservative Party adopted a two-kilometre stretch of Alta Vista Drive.

David McOnie asked his local councillor, Peter Hume, about the policy after city crews installed a sign on Alta Vista Drive at Pleasant Park Road saying the Ottawa South Conservative Association had adopted the road. The Ottawa South Conservative Association has adopted a stretch of Alta Vista Drive. (CBC)

"It just incensed me," said McOnie. "Their altruistic views of helping the community of Alta Vista here just doesn't wash....it's free advertising for them."

McOnie wants the signs taken down and the city to ban political parties of any stripe from adopting roads.

Ottawa South Conservative Association president Daniel Dickin said that in return for two signs with its name, the association must pick up litter twice a year along the roadway.

"We figured it was a great way to be involved on the local level and give back to Ottawa South community as well," said Dickin.

A city spokesman said the adopt a road program is open to anyone in the community willing to take an active role in enhancing the life of the community and has in the past included community associations, schools, businesses, and in some cases, religious and political organizations.

Alta Vista councillor Peter Hume said he believes political groups have adopted parks and roads before and said it's a non-issue.

"I would hardly call what we do for them advertising," said Hume. "I don't think it's a particularly big issue and so I don't think the policy needs to be changed."