How Long Can You Leave Political Signs In Your Yard?

In an election year, one of the first things many people notice isn’t a TV ad or a mailer; it’s a yard sign. Walk down the block in October, and you’ll see rows of corrugated plastic, poly-coated cardboard, and fold-over signs sprouting up like seasonal decorations. They bring energy and color to neighborhoods while showing support for candidates.

Once the ballots are counted, the clock starts ticking. Signs that once felt energizing can quickly look forgotten. Local ordinances often set strict deadlines, neighbors may grow impatient, and the weather takes its toll.

That’s when the question every homeowner and campaign team faces comes up: how long can you leave political signs in your yard before they overstay their welcome?

How Long Can You Leave Political Signs in Your Yard?

The first thing to understand is that political yard signs are protected speech. The U.S. Supreme Court recognizes them as an important form of expression, so towns cannot impose blanket bans. That said, local governments still have the authority to regulate the details. Municipal codes often outline rules for placement, size, and removal deadlines.

Take Michigan as an example. If you live along a state route like an M-, I-, or US- highway, signs must sit at least   on roads with curbs and thirty feet back on those without. Signs also cannot block visibility near driveways or intersections. Once the election ends, you have just ten days to pull them down.

Some states allow a thirty-day removal period, while others require signs to be taken down within a week. Failing to comply may result in fines or removal fees, and repeat violations can trigger formal legal action. Always check your city’s website, election office, or municipal codes for exact guidelines.

Why Timing Matters after Election Day

Taking down political signs promptly does more than avoid fines. It also respects your community. Leaving outdated signs scattered across lawns and intersections creates clutter and frustration for neighbors who want their streets to feel refreshed after the election.

Signs that stay up too long also fade, crack, or break, leaving behind an image of neglect instead of strength. That’s the last impression any candidate wants to make.

Property value is another consideration. If you plan to sell your home, an extended display of campaign signs may turn off potential buyers. In areas with homeowner associations, leaving signs up longer than allowed can also trigger disputes or penalties from the HOA.

Timing also creates opportunity. Once a campaign wraps up, volunteers can collect signs and prepare them for recycling or storage.

Recycling Old Yard Signs

Most campaign signs today are made from durable, lightweight, weather-resistant corrugated plastic. This material is ideal for outdoor use, but also makes recycling a practical choice. Local recycling centers often accept corrugated plastic, but it is always best to confirm. Many municipalities even offer drop-off locations or curbside collection programs after elections.

For successful recycling, signs need to be cleaned to remove dirt and debris. Stakes or wooden posts must be removed, as they aren’t recyclable with the plastic. Once prepared, signs can be dropped off at designated centers. In some areas, community organizations or campaigns themselves may organize collection drives, making it easier for residents to recycle responsibly.

If recycling isn’t possible, signs can be repurposed in creative ways. For example, they can be cut into garden markers, used for DIY projects, or even turned into protective covers for work surfaces, storage labels, or decorative pieces.

Reusing Signs for Future Campaigns

Cost and efficiency matter in any campaign. That’s why many candidates choose to reuse corrugated plastic signs across election cycles. With proper storage, these signs can hold their shape and color for years. Keeping them in a cool, dry place prevents warping and fading. Protective covers keep dust away, and storing them upright avoids bending.

Design also makes a difference. Generic messages without dates or specific titles can be reused repeatedly. Signs with a candidate’s name can last for multiple runs, while stickers or overlays can update details such as dates or slogans. This strategy helps save on production costs and reduces the campaign’s environmental footprint. Corrugated plastic options are built for this kind of longevity.

Leaving Signs Up Year-Round

Some supporters choose to keep political signs up long after the election ends. Legally, private property owners in many areas have the right to display signs year-round. Still, there are limits. HOAs may restrict size, number, or timing.

Local governments may also regulate placement, especially near public rights-of-way. For example, in Washington State, political signs on private property cannot exceed thirty-two square feet.

Even if rules allow it, a year-round display requires ongoing attention. Signs exposed to the elements for months may fade, bend, or crack, sending the wrong message. Regular cleaning helps, but over time, replacement will inevitably become necessary to maintain their effectiveness and appearance.

There’s also the question of community perception. In some neighborhoods, residents prefer a clean slate once elections end. Before leaving a sign up indefinitely, it’s smart to weigh its impact on neighbors and the overall appearance of your property.

Partner With Us For Signs That Last

At PoliticalLawnSigns.com, we manufacture all of our signs in the USA with materials that meet the demands of election season and beyond. From corrugated plastic to cost-effective fold-over cardboard options, we support campaigns with the flexibility to choose what works best for their strategy.

Our team backs every order with responsive customer support and fast turnaround times. We also offer design help and product guidance, making it easier for campaigns to stand out while staying compliant with local regulations.

When the question arises of how long political signs can stay in your yard, the honest answer lies in planning ahead. Follow local rules, recycle or reuse responsibly, and keep your campaign message strong from start to finish. Ready to plan your next round of signs? Contact us today to discuss your needs and receive a quote.