Josephine County, Oregon, has seen an uptick in political signs scattered throughout the area, raising concerns about adherence to state and local regulations. While political signs are a common sight during election seasons, many in the county are questioning whether these signs are following the law, especially as they seem to pop up in problematic locations.
Oregon law strictly governs the placement of political signs, particularly around polling places and along state highways. ORS 260.695(2) prohibits any campaigning, including signs, posters, and other promotional materials, within 100 feet of polling places during an election. This regulation aims to maintain a neutral and distraction-free voting environment.
Beyond polling places, state regulations also restrict the placement of signs on state rights-of-way, utility poles, trees, and other natural features. Temporary political signs are permitted on private property as long as they are within view of state highways and adhere to specific size and placement guidelines. For example, signs visible from state highways must not exceed 12 square feet and should not imitate official traffic signs. Additionally, flashing lights, moving parts, and signs in scenic corridors are prohibited.
To ensure compliance, any signs found on state highway rights-of-way will be removed by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) without notice. If signs on private property violate state regulations, ODOT will notify property owners and enforce removal within 60 days.
Josephine County’s local regulations align with state rules. Temporary political signs must be 12 square feet or less and removed within 60 days of placement. The county also emphasizes the importance of maintaining signs in a clean and attractive condition. Signs cannot be placed within county, state, or federal rights-of-way or in a manner that obstructs traffic signs or impairs drivers’ visibility.
Residents who have concerns about signs within the county can contact the Josephine County Planning Department. The department enforces these regulations under the Rural Land Development Code, ensuring that all signs, political or otherwise, comply with local standards.
For those within the city limits of Grants Pass and Cave Junction, local codes provide additional guidance. In Grants Pass, the Community Development Department handles inquiries about political sign placement, referencing the municipal code. In Cave Junction, similar responsibilities fall to city officials, with regulations outlined in the city’s zoning and general development standards.
Despite these regulations, many residents of Josephine County have noticed an increasing number of political signs that appear to violate both state and local laws. Complaints range from signs placed too close to polling places to oversized signs in scenic areas. These violations, some argue, detract from the natural beauty of the county and undermine the fairness of the political process.
As election seasons become more contentious, ensuring compliance with sign regulations remains crucial. Whether through state enforcement or local oversight, the goal is to maintain an orderly and fair election environment while respecting both public spaces and private property rights.
For those concerned about the legality of political signs in their area, resources are available to report potential violations and seek further information. ODOT, the Josephine County Planning Department, and local city offices stand ready to address these issues as they arise.
For more information on state sign regulations, residents can contact the State Permit Specialist at 541-757-4211 or visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s website.
