Most political campaign signs in metro Phoenix to be removed by next week

PHOENIX — Tired of seeing political campaign signs around metro Phoenix? Well, most of them have to be gone soon.

State law requires losing candidates to remove their signage from public areas within 15 days of the primary election.

That means the signs will have to be gone by next Wednesday.

Phoenix asks that the stakes or poles the campaign material are placed on be removed as well to avoid causing a safety hazard to pedestrians and cyclists.

Candidates who advanced to the Nov. 8 general election don’t have to worry about taking down their signs.

They can remain up until 15 days after the general election, regardless of result.

Signs can have a maximum area of 16 square feet if located in a zone for residential use or a maximum area of 32 square feet if located anywhere else.

There are also specific rules for the signage content.

They must contain the name and telephone number or website of the candidate or campaign committee contact person.

Signs must be placed in a public right-of-way and must be positioned in a location that isn’t hazardous to public safety, obstructs clear vision or interferes with the requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Anyone who knowingly removes, alters, defaces or covers any political sign of any candidate for public office or in support of or opposition to any ballot measure, question or issue could be charged with a misdemeanor.

Anyone in Phoenix with questions or complaints about signs can enquire email at sign.complaints@phoenix.gov or call 602-495-0301 or 602-256-4242.

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