As election season kicks into high gear, Caltrans District 2 is issuing a reminder to political candidates and campaign workers regarding the strict state laws governing the placement of temporary political signs visible from state highways.
While Section 5405.3 of the State Outdoor Advertising Act provides certain exemptions for political signage, Caltrans officials emphasize that these signs are strictly prohibited within the state highway right of way.
Restrictions on “Landscaped Freeways”
Candidates should be particularly aware of restrictions surrounding “landscaped freeways.” Signs cannot be placed within view if they are within 660 feet of the edge of the right of way of a classified landscaped freeway.
In our Caltrans district, there are only 15.5 miles of roadway designated under this classification. A landscaped freeway is defined by ornamental planting covering a continuous stretch of at least 1,000 feet within the state right of way.
Requirements for Temporary Political Signs
To legally qualify as a temporary political sign and avoid removal, the following criteria must be met:
- Purpose: Must encourage a particular vote in a scheduled election.
- Timeline: May be placed no sooner than 90 days prior to the election.
- Removal: Must be removed within 10 days following the election.
- Size: Must be no larger than 32 square feet.
- Documentation: A Statement of Responsibility must be on file with Caltrans in Sacramento.
Filing and Enforcement
If a sign is visible from a state highway, candidates are required to file a Statement of Responsibility identifying the person responsible for the sign’s eventual removal.
Failure to follow these regulations will result in action from the state. Law directs Caltrans to remove unauthorized signs and bill the responsible party for all costs associated with the removal process.
How to Apply
Candidates can obtain the Statement of Responsibility form by visiting the Caltrans Outdoor Advertising Program webpage.
Completed forms should be mailed to:
Caltrans Division of Traffic Operations
Outdoor Advertising Program
P.O. Box 942874, MS-36
Sacramento, CA 94274-0001
For general questions regarding political signage, the Office of Outdoor Advertising can be reached by phone at 1.916.654.6473.
