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When it comes to political campaigns, there are specific rules that need to be followed by staff members, volunteers, and the candidates themselves.
From reporting finances to how to host fundraisers, those running a political campaign need to be aware of any regulations that are specific to their jurisdiction, campaign, or event.
The use of political yard signs is no exception to this.
- When it comes to political yard signs, there are some common rules that need to be followed regarding design, graphics, and placement.
- Certain jurisdictions will have more specific rules that need to be followed.
- Make sure you design signs that are easy to read, get your message across, and are impactful with your community.
- ― Why Are There Rules Around Political Yard Signs?
- ― Rule 1: Know Your Local Rules Around Political Yard Sign Placement
- ― Rule #2: Know Your Private Property Rights (and Respect the Private Property of Others)
- ― Rule #3: Avoid Obstructing Views and Traffic
- ― Rule #4: Properly Dispose of Your Political Signs
- ― Get Ready for Election Day with Easy Signs: Your One Stop Shop for All Political Signage Solutions
Running a political campaign can be an exciting time…but challenging as well.
Knowing the political yard sign rules in your area will go a long way in helping your messages get noticed while also having the impact you are hoping for.
Why Are There Rules Around Political Yard Signs?
The rules around political yard signs are in place to ensure compliance with local and state regulations, maintain transparency, and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
And while each state has its own set of laws governing political yard signs, the basic common rule to putting up a political sign is governed by the First Amendment right to free speech.
That said, it’s important that you know the most common regulations before deciding how to display your political signs.
Let’s look at some of the most common rules for political signs and political messages that are in place today.
Rule 1: Know Your Local Rules Around Political Yard Sign Placement
Political yard sign regulations can vary significantly across different jurisdictions, including states, counties, and cities.
Here’s a breakdown of some key points to consider:
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State-Level Regulations:
Each state has its own laws regarding political yard signs.
From Arizona to Alaska, these laws cover aspects such as disclaimers, political sign placement, and even size.
For example, in states like Alabama, Colorado, and Connecticut, disclaimers on political yard signs are mandatory. These disclaimers should clearly state the sponsorship and funding source behind the campaign material, ensuring transparency and accountability.
In California, Vermont, and Washington, unauthorized removal of political advertising is prohibited. Only the sign owner, the property owner, or their authorized agents can remove them.
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Local Regulations:
Beyond state laws, local regulations play a crucial role. Cities and counties may have additional rules regarding yard sign placement.
To find local regulations:
Visit the official website of your city or county. Many local governments have sections dedicated to zoning, permits, and local ordinances.
Look for information related to yard signs, including permissible locations, size restrictions, and any distance requirements from polling places.
Be aware that some areas may restrict yard signs near polling places or dictate permissible materials.
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Tenant Rights:
If you’re a tenant, it’s essential to understand your rights regarding yard signs on rental properties.
Local and state regulations can vary, so familiarize yourself with the rules specific to your area.
Some jurisdictions may have strict rules about the size, placement, and duration of political signs
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Stay Informed:
Keep up-to-date with the latest legal requirements for compliance.
Regularly check official sources, such as state election boards or local government websites, for any changes or updates.
Remember that compliance with these regulations ensures both transparency and integrity during political campaigns. Researching and understanding local ordinances will help you navigate the complexities of yard sign placement effectively and ensure that your signs stay up and your messages are seen.
Rule #2: Know Your Private Property Rights (and Respect the Private Property of Others)
Private property rights are fundamental to our legal system.
Whether it’s a space where you park your car or a spot where you put up political yard signs, individuals are allowed to use their private property as they see fit, without regard for others, as long as their actions do not 1. infringe upon the rights of others or 2. break an ordinance that has been put in place they are aware of.
When it comes to political yard signs, respecting property rights is crucial.
Here’s how you can make sure that happens with any placement of your political campaign signs:
Identify the Property Owner:
Determine who owns the property where you want to place the sign before you place it. Whether it’s a residential neighborhood or a strip mall, knowing who has the authority to sign off on the sign being placed is a vital step in your sign’s longevity and your campaign’s reputation.
If it’s residential property, find out if it’s an individual or a homeowners association that needs to give final approval. If it’s a commercial property, determine if it’s the building tenant or a management company that needs to give the green light to go forward.
Seek Permission:
Contact the property owner or homeowners’ association politely.
Explain your intention to place a political yard sign and ask for their approval.
Provide information about the sign’s content and duration and provide any documentation if necessary.
Written Consent:
Whenever possible, obtain written consent before you place any signage on a property. This can make the agreement clear to all parties involved, and avoid any confusion if the sign’s placement is questioned later.
An email or a signed note can serve as documentation.
Comply with Local Regulations:
While property owners have the right to allow signs, local regulations may still apply. Homeowners associations and management companies often have rules about excess signage that need to be adhered to. These organizations may need to be consulted as well as the person or business that is occupying the property.
Some areas have size restrictions, setback requirements, or other guidelines and this can quickly vary from one residential or commercial area to the next.
Remember that — while private property is a great way to get your message out into the community, there are rules that need to be respected before placing a sign in certain areas.
Being considerate and following proper procedures not only preserves property rights but also fosters a positive community environment during election seasons.
Rule #3: Avoid Obstructing Views and Traffic
Even after you’ve gotten the go ahead to place your political signs on private or public property, you’ll want to make sure you take care to place them so that the safety and visibility of motorists and others passing by is a top priority.
Here are some guidelines to avoid obstructing views and traffic:
Sign Placement:
Set Them Back: Ensure that your sign is at least two feet inside the private property lines. This distance helps prevent obstruction of public areas like sidewalks or roads.
Keep Away from Roads: Keep your sign away from the roadway. In some cases, signs should be at least 30 feet from the road or three feet back from a highway with barrier curbs.
Keep Away from Polling Stations: Maintain a distance of 100 feet from polling stations to avoid interference with voters.
Visibility Considerations:
Keep Your View Clear: Place your sign where it won’t obstruct clear vision for drivers or pedestrians. Avoid blocking sightlines at intersections or near driveways.
Stay Away from Distractions: Signs should not distract motorists or create hazards. Ensure they don’t obstruct traffic signs, signals, or other critical elements.
Taking the time to place your signs in a way that gets them noticed but protects the rights and safety of others is a crucial part of campaigning responsibly.
Your community will have a higher opinion of you and the campaign for being cautious and cognizant of these considerations.
Rule #4: Properly Dispose of Your Political Signs
Political season has come to a close and — regardless of the results — everyone is ready to breathe a sigh of relief and get some much-needed rest.
But, as with any big event, there is still some work to be done.
Making sure that all political signs have been removed and disposed of properly is definitely one item to pay attention to on your ongoing to-do list.
Here are some helpful tips to make sure this task is done correctly.
Taking Down Political Yard Signs:
Public Property: Legally, political yard signs must be removed from public property by the second Friday after the election date. This ensures that public spaces are promptly cleared of campaign materials.
Private Property: On private property, the signs may remain longer if the property owner allows it. However, candidates and campaign teams should still aim for timely removal to maintain community aesthetics and respect property rights.
Eco-Friendly Disposal Options:
Reuse: The most environmentally friendly option is to hold onto your campaign signs and reuse them in the next election cycle. You can recover them with paper or add a plastic overlay for updated messaging.
Repurpose: Get creative! Consider painting over the sign and adding your own message. The internet offers countless ideas for repurposing such signs into other creative ideas.
Recycling: Unfortunately, recycling campaign signs can be challenging due to their mixed materials (such as corrugated cardboard coated in plastic). Here’s what you can do:
Contact Your Municipality: Reach out to your local recycling program to inquire about specific sign recycling guidelines. Some municipalities may accept certain types of signs.
Differentiate Signs: Signs made entirely of corrugated plastic feel sturdier (but may be harder to recycle), while those with a cardboard base are flimsier (and maybe more recyclable.)
Remember, responsible removal and eco-friendly disposal contribute to a cleaner environment and demonstrate your candidacy’s respect for both property rights and our planet.
Get Ready for Election Day with Easy Signs: Your One Stop Shop for All Political Signage Solutions
Easy Signs is excited to partner with this season’s political candidates and offer high quality, affordable and innovative political yard signs for all types of campaigns. If you’re wondering how to get political yard signs, Easy Signs has you covered.
From local to federal level campaigns, we have a variety of yard sign options to meet any budget and quantity. If you’re looking for the best political yard signs to make an impact, be sure to check out our offerings.
Our political yard signs are manufactured in the U.S. and our 24-hour production timeline means your signs can be ready as soon as you need them.
When you’re ready to hit the campaign trail, let Easy Signs help pave the way. Reach out today and start the signs that will help your campaign succeed!
