Can my neighbor put up offensive campaign signs on their property? What California law says
As Election Day approaches, campaign signs are popping up along California streets and in front yards.
A reader in Highland asked our journalists with How to California — a community-driven series to help readers navigate life in the Golden State: “Is my neighbor breaking any laws with his campaign signs? We (his neighbors) find them highly offensive.”
What are the rules about campaign signs in California?
What can you do if your neighbor puts up offensive campaign signs on their property?
Here’s what California law says:
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What are the rules about campaign signs in California?
California law allows temporary campaign signs near roads during election season, but they must follow specific guidelines.
Signs can only be put up 90 days before Election Day and must be removed within 10 days after the election.
They also cannot exceed 32 square feet or be placed within 660 feet of highways.
Placing signs on private property without consent is prohibited, and only property owners or authorized staff can remove signs.
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Can my neighbor put up offensive signs on their California property?
California Civil Code 4710 allows residents to display signs, posters, flags or banners on their property, provided they do not violate health and safety regulations or any local laws.
These signs can be made from various materials but cannot include lights or decorative components, the law says.
Homeowners associations can also prohibit signs that measure more than nine square feet and flags or banners exceeding 15 square feet.
California law allows local jurisdictions and HOAs to prohibit property owners from displaying signs that contain obscene language or threats, according to Evers Law Group.
For example, the city of Reedley prohibits any sign that contains obscene, indecent or immoral content, including statements, words and pictures.
What can I do if I find my neighbor’s sign offensive?
The simplest way to address an offensive sign is to talk to the neighbor and ask them to remove it, according to LS Carson Law.
If the neighbor refuses, the law firm said that the sign could be classified as a “nuisance.”
California Civil Code 3479 says anything that is an obstruction to the free use of property and interferes with someone’s life or property is a nuisance.
According to the law firm, remedies for nuisance issues include mediation, such as involving a neutral third party. You can also consult a real estate attorney, or file a lawsuit if other attempts are unsuccessful.
This story was originally published October 1, 2024 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Can my neighbor put up offensive campaign signs on their property? What California law says."
