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Published September 11, 2008, 12:00 AM

Rules for signs along state, county highways

Officials of the St. Croix County Highway Department remind citizens of the guidelines for placement of political signs along state highways.

Officials of the St. Croix County Highway Department remind citizens of the guidelines for placement of political signs along state highways.

Any signs along roadways, including political/campaign signs, garage sale, for sale, etc., pose potential hazards. Improperly placed signs can:

  • Obstruct a motorist’s view;

  • Distract a driver’s attention;

  • Compound damages or injuries in the event of a crash;

  • Endanger the safety of individuals who are erecting signs along busy highways; and

  • Present obstacles to crews who maintain (mow) roadways.

    Political/campaign signs, especially larger billboard-type signs, are particularly dangerous when placed in vision areas at intersections. Sec. 86.19, Wisconsin Statutes, does provide for a $10 to $100 fine for signs that violate the law.

    Typically, the Highway Department will remove political signs found within state and county highway right-of-way — especially if the signs pose a safety hazard. Officials make reasonable attempts to preserve campaign signs that are taken down and to provide campaign offices with an opportunity to claim the signs. The department asks citizens to refer to each municipality for signs that do not involve state or county right-of-way.

    For more information, visit www.dot.wisconsin.gov/business/rules/property-signs-political.htm

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