Everything You Need to Know About Political Signs
 
You are faced with many requirements when running for office. One issue you must deal with is properly posting campaign signs to be in compliance with the City of Chandler Sign Code, to ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians, and to respect the desires of the landowner where your signs are posted.
 
Here are six simple guidelines to follow when posting your campaign signs:

• Placement and removal.
  The person or parties responsible for the erection or distribution of any campaign signs are responsible for their proper placement and timely removal. Signs may be posted anytime before the election. Signs must be removed 10 days following the election they pertain to. 
• Size.
  In residential areas – Not to exceed 10 square feet and 5 feet in height. In commercial and industrial areas – Not to exceed 50 square feet and 8 feet in height. 
• Private Property.
  Placement of signs on private property requires the property owner’s permission. Should the property owner make a complaint to the City of Chandler, they will be referred to you and/or your campaign office for prompt resolution. 
• Roadway Medians, Sidewalks, City Owned Properties, and Handicap Access.
  Signs shall not be posted in or upon any roadway median, sidewalk or City owned properties. Signs shall not be posted in any manner to inhibit handicap accessibility. NOTE: These signs may be immediately removed by City staff without notice. 
• Rights-of-way.
  No sign shall be attached to any utility pole or other City and/or utility structure in the right-of-way. 
• Visibility.
  No sign shall be placed in a manner to cause a traffic hazard or unsafe conditions for motorists or pedestrians. Understanding each posting location is unique, the following is suggested as a “rule of thumb”:
  
  Signs less than 3 feet in height. 1.) The entire sign should be set back at
  least 3 feet from the adjoining curb edge(s) of the roadway(s) or from the edge
  of the pavement where no curb or sidewalk exists. 2.) Signs should be set
  back at least 3 feet from any driveway/entrance.
  
  Signs exceeding 3 feet in height. 1.) The entire sign should be set back at
  least 12 feet from the adjoining curb edge(s) of the roadway(s) or from the edge
  of the pavement where no curb or sidewalk exists. 2.) Signs should be set back
  at least 12 feet from any driveway/entrance.
     

By following these six simple guidelines, you show your respect for the citizens of Chandler. During each campaign, citizens do voice their concerns to the City of Chandler regarding the posting of campaign signs, and they rightfully have the expectation that City staff will address their concerns. By properly posting and promptly removing your signs after the election, it allows City staff to focus on other concerns and needs within our community.

Should City staff receive a complaint, City staff will address each issue in a manner appropriate for that specific complaint and potential violation. Voluntary correction is always desired, but at times, removal and the possible elimination of a sign may be warranted. City Sign Code (COC 39-12 and COC 39-13) authorizes the removal of any illegal sign and/or sign found to be unsafe or causing a traffic hazard. Violation of the City Sign Code is a misdemeanor offense.

If you have any questions regarding the posting of political signs, please contact the Neighborhood Resources Division at 480-782-4320.