Know the Rules: Campaign Sign Placement Restrictions Along State Highways
As election season heats up, local campaigns need to keep in mind the state rules on where campaign signs can go. In California, there’s a specific law that affects the placement of “Temporary Political Signs” along state highways, and not following it could lead to removal and fines.
According to Section 5405.3 of the State Outdoor Advertising Act, temporary political signs can be placed along some state highways, but there are clear limits. These signs can’t be put within the state right of way or within 660 feet of the right of way of a “landscaped freeway,” which is a stretch of highway with ornamental plantings that cover at least 1,000 feet. In Caltrans District 2 alone, there are 15.5 miles of these landscaped freeways.
If your campaign sign is visible from a state highway, you’ll need to file a Statement of Responsibility form with Caltrans’ Outdoor Advertising Program in Sacramento.
Here’s a quick rundown on what counts as a temporary political sign:
– It encourages a vote in an upcoming election.
– It’s posted no earlier than 90 days before the election and must be taken down within 10 days afterward.
– The sign can’t be larger than 32 square feet.
– A Statement of Responsibility form must be filed, naming the person who will ensure the signs are removed.
Caltrans has the authority to take down any unauthorized signs and will charge the responsible party for the removal costs.
For the necessary forms and more details, visit the Caltrans website.
Stay informed and ensure your signs are in the right place to avoid any hiccups during your campaign!
