On April 4, voters in Springfield have a chance to make their voices heard on several key issues. In a press release issued by the City of Springfield, specific guidelines have been provided regarding political signage and how it should be placed.
“While placing advertising in the right-of-way of any public thoroughfare is prohibited, signage on private property is allowed under various restrictions,” the release states.
The right-of-way is defined as a location anywhere along a public road within a foot behind a sidewalk, power pole or other public infrastructures. Roadway medians, ditches, and stormwater basins fall under right-of-way areas.
As detailed in the City’s code of ordinances, section 98-7 states that the reason why advertising is prohibited in the right-of-way is to help reduce litter, keep publicly owned property in a neutral state and to protect the safety of the public.
Public Works Assistant Director Kirk Juranas details the concerns of election advertisements in a press release if placed in undesignated areas.
“The placement of signs in the City’s right-of-way has always been a problem, but we’ve found it has become a growing issue in recent years,” Juranas said in the release. “Signs advertising yard sales, businesses and election issues can all hinder stormwater drainage and the maintenance of utilities and other vital infrastructure if placed in the wrong spot. They can also add to unsightly litter and are just an improper usage of publicly owned space.”
Section 36-454 of the Springfield City Code details the parameters of signs placed on private property. For political signs to be placed on private property, they cannot be illuminated, cannot be located within sight triangles and must be removed within 48 hours after the election is over for said sign. Sight triangles are the areas located along an intersection’s approach when traveling to the center of an intersection, including its approach legs and across included corners.
Springfield Public Works, Building Development Services and other City departments will monitor the placement of signage during election season. Signage located on private property that is not in compliance with zoning code requirements will be referred to the Building Development Services Department. There, a zoning violation case will be opened when signs are found in violation of the ordinance.
If signage is found in violation of right-of-way regulations, it will be removed and stored at the Phil Broyles Complex located at 1111 W. Chestnut Expressway. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, candidates and businesses can collect their signs. Any unclaimed signs will be disposed of when the election ends.
For additional details on signage guidelines, visit the City’s website.
