By Phillip Pesola–
Wondering what the law says about where political signs can by placed and what the consequences are if candidates don’t take them down after an election?
The City of Citrus Heights has posted guidelines for political signs on its 2022 elections web page, including when and where signage may be placed.
Political signs are defined by the city as signs which encourage the election or defeat of a political candidate or ballot measure. Billboards owned by a business are not included.
Political signs may be placed 90 days or less before Election Day, and must be removed within 10 days afterwards. Any signs left after that time may be removed by the city at the expense of the candidate or organization. Other unspecified penalties and fines may apply for violation of other guidelines.
A permit is not required to place these signs, but they may only be placed on private property with the property owner’s permission. Additionally, signs may not exceed a combined area of 50 square feet on a lot, may not be taller than 6 feet, and may not be illuminated.
Signs that are not free standing must be placed at least five feet from the property line, and at least 15 feet from any fire hydrant, street sign, or traffic signal. The signs are not permitted to obstruct or confuse traffic.
Signs are prohibited on or within publicly owned “buildings, parks, recreation areas, landscaped grounds, trees, flagpoles, or within public rights-of-way.” Such locations include street signs, traffic signals, poles, curbs and sidewalks, fence and pedestrian barricades, center medians, fire hydrants and street trees.
Questions regarding political signage rules are directed to the City Clerk’s office at (916) 725-2448. Complaints regarding violations of campaign sign rules are directed to the city’s Code Enforcement Division, at (916) 725-2845.
