The Oregon Department of Transportation announced on April 9 that political signs are not permitted on state highway right-of-way and will be removed if found in violation. The agency said it routinely removes improperly placed signs, including campaign materials, to prevent driver distraction, collision hazards, and blocked road safety messages.
With the May 19 elections approaching, ODOT said its crews expect to see an increase in political signs joining other unauthorized items along highways. “We receive complaints from the public and from candidates regarding the improper placement of political signs on highway right-of-way, where only official traffic control devices are allowed,” the department said.
ODOT stated that wrongly placed political signs will be taken down and held at a nearby district maintenance office for up to 30 days so owners can reclaim them. The width of highway right-of-way varies by location; those unsure about sign placement are advised to check with their local ODOT maintenance office. Signs cannot be attached to trees, utility poles, fence posts or natural features within rights-of-way and are also banned within view of designated scenic areas.
Political signs may be displayed on private property visible from state highways but must meet certain requirements: they cannot exceed 12 square feet unless a variance permit is obtained through ODOT’s Oregon Advertising Sign program (up to 32 square feet), may not have flashing lights or moving parts, must not imitate official signage, cannot appear in scenic corridors, and no payment can be exchanged for their placement or message.
Local municipalities may also have additional regulations regarding sign placement. More information is available through ODOT’s Outdoor Advertising Sign Program.
