Political Signs: Bakersfield vs Delano
How do political signs rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Delano, CA?
Delano has fewer restrictions than Bakersfield.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield regulates signs under its sign ordinance in the zoning code (BMC Title 17). Political signs are afforded strong First Amendment protections. California Elections Code §18370 prohibits local governments from banning political signs within specified timeframes before and after elections.
View full Bakersfield rules →Delano, CA
Kern County
Political signs in Delano are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code §13002. Time, place, and manner restrictions are governed by Delano Development Code Chapter 20.14 (Sign Requirements).
View full Delano rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Delano |
|---|---|---|
| State Protection | CA Elections Code §18370 | - |
| Protected Period | 90 days before to 15 days after election | - |
| Permit Required | No permit for political signs | - |
| Right-of-Way | Signs prohibited in public ROW | - |
| Restrictions | Must be content-neutral | - |
| Sign Code | - | Delano DC Ch. 20.14 |
| ROW Placement | - | Prohibited |
| Election Window | - | 90 days before / 10 days after |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Can I put up political signs in my yard in Bakersfield?
Yes. Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code §18370. The city cannot prohibit them within 90 days before and 15 days after an election.
Are there size limits on political signs?
The city's sign ordinance may impose content-neutral size restrictions. However, restrictions cannot effectively prohibit political speech. Signs in the public right-of-way are generally not permitted.
Delano FAQ
How many signs can I display?
Most California cities place no numerical limit on residential political signs; size/height limits still apply.
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