Maine Political Sign Placement Guide
Quick Reference for Candidates & Volunteers • State Law Summary
Sources: 23 M.R.S. §1913-A and §1917-B; MaineDOT Temporary Sign Guidance; 21-A M.R.S. §682.
This is a summary for convenience only and is not legal advice. Always verify current law and local ordinances. Maine Department of Transportation • maine.gov/dot
Signs in the Public Right-of-Way (ROW)
Timing
Maximum of 6 weeks from January 1–June 30 and 6 weeks from July 1–December 31 (total 12 weeks per year).
Size
No larger than 4 feet by 8 feet.
Spacing
At least 30 feet from any other temporary sign with the same or substantially the same message.
Required Label
Name and address of the person/organization that placed the sign plus the date it was erected.
Where You Cannot Place Signs
On the center island of a rotary or roundabout
On medians less than 6 feet wide
On traffic control signs, signals, or devices
On utility poles or fixtures
On trees in the public right-of-way
In control-of-access areas
On or within the interstate system (including Maine Turnpike and ramps)
or within 660 feet of the interstate if the message is readable from it
Anywhere that blocks a driver’s sight line or creates a traffic hazard
Private Property
Allowed outside the public right-of-way (with property owner’s permission).
Maximum size: 50 square feet.
No state time limit applies (local ordinances may still restrict).
The public right-of-way often extends approximately 33 feet from the centerline of the road. Check with MaineDOT or the local town for the exact boundary.
Other Important Rules
Polling Places
No political advertising on public property within 250 feet of the entrance to a voting place on Election Day (21-A M.R.S. §682).
Removing Signs
Taking, defacing, or disturbing a properly placed temporary sign is a civil violation with a fine up to $250
(23 M.R.S. §1917-B).
Noncompliance
MaineDOT (and municipalities in urban compact areas) may remove non-compliant signs. Signs that create hazards are removed regardless of other compliance.
Cemeteries
Though not a rule, out of respect, place no signs in graveyards or on roadsides abutting them.
Best Practice
Whenever possible, place signs on private property outside the right-of-way. Always label every sign with the required information and the date. When in doubt about the right-of-way line, contact your local MaineDOT region office.