MDOT: Political Signs Illegal in Rights-of-Way

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds political candidates that campaign signs are not permitted on state highway right-of-way.

To maintain traffic safety, the following rules govern the placement of signs:

• According to Section 63-3-317 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, it is illegal to place signs within the right-of-way on state highways.
• 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.
• 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.
• Any illegally placed signs will be removed.
• 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.
• Illegally placed campaign signs contribute to our state’s $3.2 million litter problem that spoils Mississippi’s natural beauty.
• 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.