ARDOT reiterates political signs policy

With the Arkansas primary election less than a month away, candidates for political office and their supporters are reminded it is unlawful to place campaign signs on highway right of way in Arkansas, according to Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) officials.Scott Bennett, ARDOT Director, says there are several Arkansas statutes addressing encroachment and the placing of signs or other objects on highway right of way.

Only official directional, informational and/or regulatory highway signs are permitted on state-owned highway property. All other signs are removed by the local Area Maintenance Office. These statutes apply to all unauthorized signs, not just political campaign signs.

Small yard signs that are placed on the right of way will be removed by ARDOT personnel. Owners of large billboard-type signs will be notified and given an opportunity to remove them before the ARDOT does. Owners can pick up the signs during normal business hours at the nearest ARDOT Area Maintenance Office.

In the city of Mountain Home political signs are permitted to be placed on private property in any district unless the district does not permit a sign or has special requirements. Contact the Building Inspection Department at 870-425-2550 for further details.

A link to the city’s sign ordinance can be found at www.cityofmountainhome.com.

If the district allows, a political sign may be erected, but no earlier than 60 days prior to a primary, general or special election. That sign has to be removed within 72 hours following the final election to which it applies.

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