Political signs: They can't go just anywhere
STAR-JOURNAL STAFF
As the Nov. 5 election day draws nearer, the number of political signs around the state is multiplying.
But before you stake that Shallenburger or Sebelius sign around town, make sure you know where it's allowed to go.
As a general rule, any sign can be placed on private property. But that doesn't apply to city or public areas, according to City Administrator Steve Garrett.
There are three main areas where signs aren't allowed: city property, utility poles, and public right-of-ways.
Most citizens are probably familiar with the first two. But it's the last one — the right-of-ways — that can get confusing. They include a variety of sites, from easements to the strip of land separating a sidewalk or ditch from the road.
These right-of-ways even include the strip of ground in front of a person's house that extends from the sidewalk to the street, Garrett said.
But in residential areas, the city will usually give adjacent property owners the leeway to post signs there, he said.
One popular place for signs has been the land just outside the Adobe House. It's a high-traffic corner, and consequently a tempting place to stake those political posterboards.
But since it's a right of way, that location is off-limits. City crews have already removed signs from there, Garrett said.
Other spots that are to remain sign-free include public areas, such as the golf course and sports complex, and city-owned land. The city can't be seen as promoting one candidate, Garrett said.
So far, illegal sign-posting hasn't been a major problem, he said.
