Proper Location of Temporary Signs Including Political Signs

Another presidential election campaign is in full swing and although the political debates are just a few days away, at least one important issue is not open for debate: state law prohibits placing any type of sign—including political, commercial, children at play or garage sale signs within public right-of-way. With a major election approaching Nov. 3, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, Outagamie County Highway and the Town of Greenville is reminding candidates, campaign workers and the general public that placing items like temporary signs in highway right-of-way is both illegal and potentially dangerous.

Except for official traffic signs, state law prohibits placing any signs or other objects in highway right-of-way. This prohibition extends to all numbered state, federal and interstate highways, along with county highways, town roads, municipal streets, alleys, bike and pedestrian paths.

Any temporary sign must be placed on private property with the owner's permission. The general rule is if there was or is a sidewalk, it would need to be placed behind that. If that is difficult to tell, then a good rule of thumb is approximately 16' back from the curb or 20' back from the edge of pavement. Also, intersections have a vision triangle associated with them that extends onto private property. If a sign obstructs the view of traffic and creates an immediate safety hazard - it will be removed. Signs in violation but not creating a hazard, staff will try to work with the property owner or party to have them properly relocated. No sign may be placed on public property which can include street terrace areas, highway medians or roundabouts; Town staff will be removing signs clearly on town-owned property. Town staff will not remove signs clearly placed on private property.