Political Signs in the Public Right of Way

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In Illinois, the public right-of-way (ROW) is a type of easement dedicated to transportation purposes, such as roads, sidewalks, and railways. Most people recognize a right-of-way as the driving lanes, shoulders, ditches, and corners at intersections.

Illinois law restricts the placement of political signs in the public right-of-way or on public easements. The Kane County Division of Transportation will remove political signs that create hazards in the public right-of-way, such as obstructing drivers' views or interfering with maintenance crews performing tasks like mowing the grass.

All campaign signs placed in the public right-of-way will be removed by the county one week following the November 5 election.

Additionally, political signs can only be placed on private property with the owner's permission. Signs cannot be placed within 100 feet of a polling place entrance, and signs are prohibited from being placed on electric poles due to safety concerns.

The County spends public funds to maintain and preserve roadways and ensure their safe and efficient operation. Residents should be familiar with property boundaries and recognize the hazards of encroaching on or using the public right-of-way.