Political Signs: Arlington Heights vs Chicago
How do political signs rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights permits political signs on residential property with minimal restrictions consistent with First Amendment protections. Signs may not exceed 6 square feet in area per sign in residential districts. No permit is required for political signs. Signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way or on Village property.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Chicago, IL
Cook County
Chicago regulates political signs under content-neutral temporary sign rules in MCC §13-20-560. Residential properties may display non-illuminated temporary signs up to 6 square feet per sign without permits. The city updated rules after Reed v Gilbert to apply uniformly to all temporary signs. Signs in the public right-of-way are removed by Streets and Sanitation without notice.
View full Chicago rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | No | - |
| Maximum Size | 6 sq ft per sign in residential | - |
| Number Limit | No limit on private property | - |
| Right-of-Way | Not permitted | - |
| Seasonal Limits | None, year-round display allowed | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Do I need a permit for a political yard sign in Arlington Heights?
No permit is required for political signs on residential property. Each sign may not exceed 6 square feet in area. There is no limit on the number of signs you may display on your private property.
Can I put political signs in the parkway or median?
No. Political signs may not be placed in the public right-of-way, on Village property, or on utility poles. Signs must be entirely on private property.
Do I have to remove political signs after an election?
No. Arlington Heights does not require removal of political signs after elections. Signs may be displayed year-round. However, signs that become deteriorated should be maintained or removed under general property maintenance standards.
Chicago FAQ
When can I put up a political sign in Chicago?
Any time of year. After Reed v Gilbert, Chicago applies content-neutral temporary sign rules; the prior election-window restriction was removed.
How big can my sign be?
Up to 6 square feet per sign on residential property without a permit, with aggregate limits per parcel.
Can I post signs on parkway trees or utility poles?
No. Placement on parkways, parkway trees, utility poles, traffic signals, medians, or any public right-of-way is prohibited and subject to summary removal.
Compare other topics
See how Arlington Heights and Chicago compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool