No Political Or Campaign Signs Allowed On Oregon Highways
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has confirmed that placing political signs along state highways contravenes the rules and regulations. These signs will be removed.
Oregon Rules About Signs On Highways
As the November 5 elections approach, ODOT has issued a reminder that only official traffic control devices are allowed within highway right-of-ways.
Political and other unauthorized signs could obscure important road safety messages or distract drivers and the signs will be removed.
After removal, the signs are kept at the nearest ODOT district maintenance office for 30 days who can be contacted during this period by those seeking to reclaim their signs.
The regulations prohibit signs:
- On state highways
- In areas within view of designated scenic areas.
- Attached to highway right-of-way restrictions, utility poles, fence posts, trees, or other natural features along the roadside.
The regulations and further information on the Oregon Advertising Sign Program are available from ODOT at cms.oregon.gov/odot/hwy/signprogram.
Political Signs Allowed On Private Property In Oregon
On private property within view of state highways, political signs are allowed but the specific restrictions in place are:
- Size limitations: 12 square feet unless a variance is obtained.
- Variance maximum: Signs up to 32 square feet may be allowed with a variance.
- Sign restriction: No flashing lights, animated features, or anything resembling official highway signs are allowed.
- Placement: Signs are not allowed in scenic corridors.
- Payment: No payment or compensation may be exchanged for the placement or message of temporary political signs visible from state highways.
ODOT has urged campaigns to follow the guidelines to comply with state laws and ensure road safety.
Local district offices or ODOT’s interactive map reflect boundaries of a highway right-of-way where individuals can get clarity on property limits. In addition to ODOT’s state rules, local municipalities may have their own regulations on sign placement.
The department advises campaigns to verify rules at both state and local levels.