Politics & Government

The Dos and Don'ts of Political Campaign Signs

The Village of New Lenox posted a reminder to residents about what and where is OK when it comes to supporting a candidate for office.

From the :

During political election campaigns, candidates and political supporters usually post temporary signs supporting their political positions. For aesthetic and safety concerns the village regulates temporary political signage so as to control the size and location of these temporary signs.

These regulations address the communities need to control temporary signage while providing political positions ample opportunity to advertise their positions.

When may signs be posted?

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Gov. Pat Quinn signed a proposal into law in June 2010 that would bar municipalities from regulating when campaign signs can go up on residential properties. The new law would essentially allow homeowners to put up signs year-round.

The Quinn administration said the new law would bring Illinois into compliance with a 1994 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. That ruling indicated political signs are protected "free speech" under the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment and cannot be regulated by municipalities. Municipalities are however, still allowed to regulate the size and location of the signs.

Find out what's happening in New Lenoxwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

How Big May the Signs Be?

The total area for a temporary political sign shall not exceed 16 square feet.

Where May a Sign Be Placed?

Political signs shall at no time be placed any closer than 15 feet from the edge of the pavement. In areas where sidewalks are existing, signs shall be placed a minimum of 2 feet beyond the private property side of the edge of the sidewalk.

No political signs shall be posted within any public right-of-way within the village.

What's Off Limits?

The use of trees or utility poles as sign supports or standards are expressly prohibited. Any signs posted to the contrary of these regulations will be deemed illegal and are subject to removal and associated penalties. Should you have any questions about temporary political signs please contact the village clerk at 815-462-6420.

Who Do You Support?

To find where you vote and who's on your ballot, go to the County Clerk's precinct finder. You can also read Patch's coverage to get a rundown of who filed for election in county, state and congressional races:

Congress:

State:

County:


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