Political Signs Illegal on State Right-of-Way

The Mississippi Department of Transportation reminds political candidates that campaign signs are not permitted within the right-of-way on state highways, according to Mississippi law.

The width of highway right-of-way varies by location and includes the driving lanes, shoulders and mowed areas; the right-of-way can potentially reach distances of 300 feet or more from the centerline of driving lanes.

To maintain traffic safety, please observe the following:

• Illegally placed campaign signs contribute to our state’s $3.2 million litter problem that spoils Mississippi’s natural beauty.
• Any illegally placed signs will be removed.
• Keeping the right-of-way clear prevents safety hazards and interference with the traveling public along roadways.
• Signs with steel or wooden posts pose potential hazards that may cause harm to roadside workers, may damage roadside equipment and may become projectiles if hit by mowers.
• Signs are not permitted within areas necessary for clear vision at intersections; signs must not interfere with the sight distance of a driver.
• No signs are allowed in limited access right-of-way.
• Typically, the right-of-way is larger near roadway intersections.
• Signs removed by MDOT crews will be kept for two weeks at a local MDOT maintenance facility before being discarded.
• Candidates may retrieve signs from MDOT without penalty.

For information about right-of-way distances in specific areas along a state-maintained highway, call your local MDOT maintenance facility.

For more information, call 601-359-7074 or visit GoMDOT.com.

Courtesy of MDOT