PORTLAND, Ore. — As the Nov. 5 national election approaches, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is reminding campaign workers and their supporters that political signs are not allowed on state highway rights-of-way. I am calling for your attention.
ODOT says improperly installed signs can distract drivers and interfere with traffic safety messages, so only official traffic control devices are allowed in these rights-of-way.
ODOT said signs found in violation will be removed and stored at a nearby district maintenance office for 30 days.
To retrieve these, you must contact your local ODOT maintenance office.
“The installation of signs on trees, utility poles, fence posts, and natural features within highway right-of-way is prohibited,” ODOT said. It is also prohibited within sight of designated scenic spots.
A highway right-of-way is usually measured as the entire land area between the property line on one side of the highway and the property line on the other side.
The width of state highways varies greatly depending on location. ODOT recommends that if you are unsure whether to install a sign on private property or a highway right-of-way, please consult your local ODOT District Maintenance Office or refer to the interactive map available to help locate ODOT right-of-way. I advise you to use it.
Political signs are permitted on private property visible from state highways, subject to certain restrictions.
Sign dimensions are limited to 12 square feet, but can be up to 32 square feet due to variance with the Oregon Billboard Program resource guidelines. Signs must not contain flashing or intermittent lights, animation or moving parts, and must not imitate official road signs or devices. Also, use within the scenic corridor is prohibited.
ODOT emphasized that no payment or compensation of any kind can be exchanged for the installation of temporary signs or messages, including political signs that are visible from state highways.
For more information on sign regulations, visit ODOT’s website.
