State Highways and County Roadways
State Rules
No signs are permitted in state highway right of way.
Political signs adjacent to and within 660 feet of any Nevada Highway System highway must meet federal spacing, size, zoning and lighting requirements. A permit must be obtained from NDOT (Nevada Department of Transportation) for political signs larger than 4′ x 8′. A permit is not required for smaller (4′ x 8’or smaller) political signs.
Political signs must not distract drivers and cannot resemble official traffic signs.
Political signs cannot block the view of oncoming traffic.
Political signs erected on private property that is adjacent to state highway right of way may be erected no more than 60 days before the election at which the candidate or question appears on the ballot. These signs must be removed within 30 days after the election unless the candidate appears on the general election ballot because of the results in the primary election. In the latter circumstance the signs must be removed within 7 days after the general election.
Political signs violating state rules will be removed by NDOT employees.
County Rules
Political signs advertise support of or opposition to candidates or ballot questions.
County rules for prohibited signs are codified in Douglas County Code 20.696.200. Some of the more common violations are:
- Placement on utility poles and traffic control posts.
- Placement in county right of way.
- Placement on private property adjacent to county right of way without consent of the property owner.
- Signs that obstruct clear views of pedestrians and traffic.
County code requires removal of political signs within seven calendar days after the elections.
Recommendation
Political candidates and ballot question advocacy groups should be encouraged to contact the Nevada Department of Transportation Right of Way Division in Carson City at (775)888-7480 for a full understanding of state signage rules.
Candidates and advocacy groups should review chapter 20.696 of the Douglas County Code for local controls related to signs and advertising.
Political candidates and ballot question advocacy groups should not rely solely on summaries like this memorandum and materials available from the our office. These materials supply a useful overview but are not a substitute for familiarity with state regulations and the county code.
If you have any additional questions please call the Election Office at (775) 783-6095.
