Minnesota Law: How Long Can Political Signs Stay in Your Yard?
It’s November in Minnesota, which means we’re all busy wrapping up outdoor chores before the snow arrives. There are Halloween decorations to take down, Christmas lights to put up, leaves to rake and get rid of, and patio furniture to stow away.
But there’s one thing that’s still hanging around in a lot of yards: political signs. And if they stay in your yard much longer, you might end up getting a friendly visit from local law enforcement.
Minnesotans need to take down political campaign signs from their property soon after the election to avoid potential local code penalties.
Minnesota Statute 211B.045 says residents can display political materials for several weeks before an election, but should remove them from yards shortly after the votes are counted.
"All noncommercial signs of any size may be posted in any number beginning 46 days before the state primary in a state general election year until ten days following the state general election. Municipal ordinances may regulate the size and number of noncommercial signs at other times."
The Minnesota Department of Transportation says campaign signs are never allowed on highway right-of-way, including inside and outside shoulders, ditches, sight corners at intersections, and boulevards in urban areas. MNDot Workers will remove these signs.
So, what happens if you leave your signs up past that 10-day post-election window?
That's not exactly clear, and the state leaves it up to city governments to decide. I don't think anyone is going to jail over a campaign yard sign, but failing to remove it means local authorities can confiscate the signs and/or issue a fine.
More than likely, a police officer or community officer will stop by to remind you to remove the sign.
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