January 25, 2018 Lufkin – As primary elections draws near, the Texas Department of Transportation is reminding political parties, candidates and their supporters that the law dictates where campaign signs can be placed along Texas roadways.
March 6 is the scheduled primary election and May 22 set for runoff elections. Candidates can place campaign signs up to 90 days prior to elections.
“We want to remind everyone that TxDOT has guidelines about placing signs on the right-of-way,” said Rhonda Oaks, public information officer for the Lufkin District. “There are usually many signs posted near election time and if a political sign is placed on the right of way, we will be required to remove it without notice.”
Posting signage on public lands is illegal. TxDOT is urging candidates and supporters to remember:
- It is illegal to place any signs within the right of way. This includes posting signs on trees, telephone poles, traffic signs and other objects on the right of way.
- Campaign signs along Texas roads can be placed on private property with the owner's permission.
- Signs must be made of lightweight material and be no larger than 50 square feet.
- Campaign signs may be posted as early as 90 days before an election (no earlier) and must be removed within 10 days after the election.
- Before placing a sign inside of incorporated city limits, check city for applicable ordinances.
- If a sign is placed in the right of way or poses a traffic hazard, it will be removed. All costs associated with sign removal will be paid by the sign owner.
For more information regarding signage, visit txdot.gov or contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or (936) 633-4395.
