Grants Pass and Josephine County are no strangers to the drama surrounding political signage as election season approaches. It’s crucial for candidates and their supporters to familiarize themselves with the regulations governing temporary political signs in Josephine County, Oregon. While these signs play a vital role in campaigning, improper placement or noncompliance with local laws can result in fines or the removal of the signs. Below is a comprehensive overview of the guidelines you need to follow to ensure you remain within the law.
At the state level, there are specific restrictions on where and how temporary political signs can be placed. One of the most important rules is that no signs are allowed in state rights-of-way. This includes fences, fence posts, utility poles, trees, rocks, or any other natural features located within the right-of-way. Signs are also prohibited in protected areas of the interstate system, designated scenic corridors, and state parks.
Temporary political signs are permitted on private property within view of state highways, but there are some limitations:
- Size: Signs must be 12 square feet or less unless an exception has been granted.
- Lighting and Design: No flashing or intermittent lights, and no animated or moving parts are allowed.
- Safety: Signs must not block traffic views or imitate official highway signs.
Signs placed in scenic corridors or right-of-way areas may be removed without notice by state officials. Moreover, all temporary signs must be removed within 60 days of placement, except in cases where the sign is erected by the property owner on their own residential property.
For any questions or concerns about signs placed along state highways, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) can be contacted at 541-774-6299. Violations can be reported, and more details are available in Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 377.735 and 377.720.
Josephine County Regulations
In Josephine County, the rules are similar to state guidelines but with a few added details specific to the county. Signs must also be:
- 12 square feet or less.
- Removed within 60 days of placement unless placed on the resident’s own property.
Importantly, all signs in Josephine County must be maintained in a neat and clean condition. This means that damaged or unkempt signs could be subject to removal. As with state rules, political signs cannot be placed in any county, state, or federal right-of-way or in locations that obstruct the view of traffic signs.
For more information about specific local rules, the Josephine County Planning Department can be contacted at 541-474-5421. The complete regulations can also be found in the Josephine County Code, Chapter 19.74.030(B).
City Regulations: Grants Pass and Cave Junction
For residents within the cities of Grants Pass and Cave Junction, local ordinances provide additional rules:
- Grants Pass: Signs can only be erected 11 weeks before an election and must be taken down within one week after the election. Signs must be placed behind the sidewalk and cannot extend onto public property or into the public right-of-way. There are no restrictions on the number of signs per residential property, but the size is limited to 3 square feet in residential areas.
- Cave Junction: Only one sign per candidate or ballot measure is allowed per parcel, and signs must not exceed 6 square feet. Additionally, all signs must be removed within 10 days after the election.
Beyond following legal guidelines, one critical point is ensuring that candidates and supporters receive permission from property owners before placing signs. Regardless of the law, putting up a sign without the property owner’s consent can lead to complaints and further complications. It’s always best to communicate with property owners before placing signs, to avoid disputes and ensure that everyone’s rights are respected.
Temporary political signs are a staple of election season, but they must be used responsibly. Whether you’re a candidate, campaign worker, or a politically engaged resident, following these guidelines will help avoid fines, removals, and complaints. Always check with local and state authorities if you are uncertain about where signs can be placed and remember to get permission from property owners to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
