TxDOT Offers Helpful Do’s and Don’t’s for Planting Political Signs this Campaign Season

During campaign season, the landscape blooms with a special kind of flower – the political sign. Unlike wildflowers which are welcome anywhere, putting campaign signs on public lands is illegal. So before you plant that sign, learn the law and keep Texas beautiful.

TxDOT only controls the location of commercial signs, and never controls the content of any signage. If you have questions about what may be on a political sign, please contact the Texas Ethics Commission at (512) 463-5800.

Where can I place political signs?

You can place signs anywhere so long as they are not in the highway right of way or in a location that poses a safety hazard (e.g. blocking sight to a driveway). Keep in mind that signs cannot be placed on trees, telephone poles, traffic signals, fences, or any other objects in the right of way. Always make sure to check with local authorities (Cities, Counties, Homeowner’s Associations, etc.) as they may have their own restrictions.

When can I place political signs out?

Cities and counties may have their own time restrictions for political signs; however, TxDOT does not enforce any timing restrictions.

What should I do if there is a sign on PRIVATE PROPERTY posing a safety hazard?

If you believe a sign or signs create a safety hazard, you should contact the local law enforcement as they can have the owner remove or relocate the sign(s).

What should I do if I see signs in the Right of Way?

Signs cannot be placed on the ROW as per Texas Transportation Code (TTC)§ 393.002. “A sheriff, constable, or other trained volunteer authorized by the commissioners court of a county may confiscate a sign placed in violation of Section 393.002.” (TTC §393.003). For state-maintained highways, your local TxDOT district office also has the authority to remove signs located on state owned right of way.

For any other questions concerning political signs along Texas highways, contact the TxDOT Commercial Signs Regulatory Program via email at: RPW_OutdoorAdvertising@TxDOT.gov or by phone at (512) 416-3030.