At least one candidate for a local office has complained about disappearing campaign signs. What can be done about it? Reporter Dan Stork says, not much …
State law has a fair bit to say about the responsibilities of parties who put out campaign signs in the run-up to balloting. But with regard to the theft and vandalism of signs, the web site of the California Secretary of State says, “This is typically a local issue and is not mentioned in the Elections Code. Some cities have specific ordinances that prohibit campaign sign theft/vandalism—check with your local code enforcement department. Otherwise, sign theft/vandalism is treated as any other minor property crime and can be reported to your local police or sheriff’s office.”
What state law does do is to exempt the placing of Temporary Political Signs from normal outdoor advertising display requirements.
Further, a Temporary Political Sign meets the following criteria:
1. Encourages a particular vote in a scheduled election.
2. Is placed not sooner than 90 days prior to the schedule election and is removed within 10 days after that election.
3. Is no larger than 32 square feet.
4. Has had a Statement of Responsibility filed with the Department certifying a person who will be responsible for removing the sign.
Also, CalTRANS can remove unauthorized political signs, and bill the responsible party for removal.
AS ELECTIONS APPROACH, CAMPAIGN SIGN ISSUES
