June 20, 2008 -- The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds political candidates and property owners that signs placed along state trunklines must conform to state regulations. Each year, hundreds of political, real estate, and garage sale signs line roadsides across mid-Michigan, including the state's Thumb Area. Improperly placed signs can create safety hazards by blocking a driver's view.
"We understand that many of these signs are part of the political process," said MDOT Bay Region Engineer Tony Kratofil. "Our primary concern is the safety of the motoring public. We want to make sure these signs do not block the vision of motorists or pedestrians."
Signs must be placed more than 30 feet from the edge of the roadway (or from the white line along the edge) on highways without barrier-type curbs. On highways with barrier curbs, the signs must be more than three feet from the back of the curb. Directional signs are prohibited adjacent to state highways. Signs are not allowed within clear vision areas at intersections or commercial driveways.
Signs are not allowed on freeways, overpasses or ramps.
Candidates are responsible for obtaining approval from adjacent property owners before placing signs. Political signs must be removed within 10 days after the election.
Signs that do not meet these criteria will be removed. Sign owners can pick up any removed signs at local MDOT offices and maintenance garages. Signs not claimed within seven days of their removal will be discarded.
For more information on campaign sign regulations, visit the MDOT Web site at http://www.michigan.gov/mdot/0,1607,7-151-42456-147773--F,00.html.
Protect Michigan families: Where Workers Present Drive 45! - A message from MDOT and Michigan's Give 'em a Brake Safety Coalition
|
Printer Friendly
Text Version 
Email Page
