Political Signs: Chicago vs Evanston
How do political signs rules compare between Chicago, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Chicago.
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 →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Political signs on private property in Cook County are protected by the First Amendment and Illinois law. Cook County's sign regulations cannot unreasonably restrict political expression. Standard sign size and placement rules may still apply.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chicago | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Private Property | - | Protected speech |
| Right-of-Way | - | May be removed |
| Permits | - | Cannot require for political signs |
| Standard | - | Content-neutral rules apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Evanston FAQ
Can I put political signs in my yard in Cook County?
Yes. Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment. The county cannot unreasonably restrict or require permits for political signs.
When must political signs come down?
While there is no strict deadline, signs should be removed within a reasonable time after elections. General sign regulations regarding maintenance still apply.
Compare other topics
See how Chicago and Evanston 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