Political Signs: Colorado Springs vs Manitou Springs
How do political signs rules compare between Colorado Springs, CO and Manitou Springs, CO?
Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs have similar restriction levels.
Colorado Springs, CO
El Paso County
Colorado Springs allows political signs on private property without a permit under the Unified Development Code sign regulations. Political signs are considered noncommercial speech and are protected under both the First Amendment and Colorado state law. Signs in residential zones are typically subject to the same size limits as other temporary signs (generally 6 square feet per sign face). Signs must be removed within 7 days after the election. Signs are not permitted in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, or on city property.
View full Colorado Springs rules →Manitou Springs, CO
El Paso County
El Paso County Land Development Code allows political signs on private property with size limits. Signs in public rights-of-way are prohibited. Removal required within 14 days after election. First Amendment and Reed v. Town of Gilbert protections apply.
View full Manitou Springs rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Colorado Springs | Manitou Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | No permit required for political signs | - |
| Size Limit | Generally 6 sq ft per sign face in residential zones | - |
| Removal Deadline | Within 7 days after the election | - |
| Right-of-Way | Not permitted in public ROW or on city property | Prohibited |
| Protection | First Amendment and Colorado state law | - |
| Residential Limit | - | 6 sq ft, no permit |
| Commercial Limit | - | 32 sq ft |
| Post-Election | - | Remove within 14 days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Colorado Springs FAQ
Do I need a permit for a political yard sign in Colorado Springs?
No. Political signs on private residential property do not require a permit. They are protected noncommercial speech under the First Amendment and Colorado state law.
When must political signs be removed after an election?
Political signs should be removed within 7 days after the election date. Signs left beyond that period may be subject to code enforcement.
Manitou Springs FAQ
Who enforces political signs rules in El Paso County?
El Paso County's code enforcement division is responsible for signs ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the El Paso County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
What are typical penalties for violating political signs rules?
Most El Paso County signs violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult El Paso County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.
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