Keep signs off right-of-ways

As political campaigns increase their efforts toward the Nov. 3 election, it’s important to know and follow the state laws regarding placement of signs off of state property and only on land where the landowner has agreed to its placement.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is reminding people that the placement of campaign and other advertising signage on any highway right-of-way is not allowed under state law. All state, county, city and township roads and highways fall under the same state law.

Highway right-of-ways include driving lanes, inside and outside shoulders, ditches and sight corners at intersections.

Landowner consent is needed in order for signs to be placed on private property.

MnDOT is required to remove unlawfully placed signs and impound them at a local maintenance truck station. Violation of the law is a misdemeanor. Civil penalties also may apply if the placement of signage contributes to a motor vehicle crash and injures a person or damages a motor vehicle that runs off the road.

The Minnesota Outdoor Advertising Control Act also prohibits placing advertising materials on public utility poles, trees and shrubs, and painting or drawing on rocks or natural features.