Campaign signs question

[Robb]

I've seen a few posts here and there with horror stories from folks who had campaign signs in their yards.

Does anyone have any definitive info on one's rights concerning signs, and those of people who mess with them? I live in a town where I know I'm going to, at a minimum, get my sign snatched....

[GOPisEvil]

1. It's your yard, right?

And it's your sign?

Anyone coming onto your yard without permission could be guilty of tresspassing, and if they steal or deface your sign, that could be criminal mischief.

But, as I am not a legal expert, I suggest consulting the attorney of your choice. :-)

[Renew Deal]

3. Get your gun!

Oh wait, this is DU. Oops

[CO Liberal]

2. Actual Rights Vary From Town to Town

I live in a covenant community (Pueblo West, CO) where you can only post signs two weeks prior to an election, and take them down the day after.

In most towns, the space between the curb and the sidewalk is considered public right-of-way, and you can't put signs there. But if you put a sign on your lawn and someone removes or defaces it, they may be liable for criminal prosecution.

Check with your local authorities.

[sybylla]

4. This is true here, too

In Wisconsin, the right-of-way is off limits. On rare occasions, in rural areas, you can get away with right-of-way placement depending on the circumstances of the property, i.e. a fence interferes. But it better be real close to the right-of-way line.

You can place a sign anywhere on your own property, unless city ordinances or community covenants prevent it. I imagine a quick call to city hall will give you your answers.