Political Signs: Edison vs New Brunswick

Can Edison Township limit how early I can put up a political sign in my yard?

Probably not. Under Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015), a rule that limits political signs to a fixed pre-election window while allowing other temporary signs year-round is content-based and presumptively unconstitutional. Edison's enforceable rules are limited to content-neutral size, setback, and right-of-way restrictions.

Can I put political signs on the strip of grass between my Edison sidewalk and the street?

No. That strip is the public right-of-way - the township owns it (even though you may mow it), and signs there are an unlawful obstruction subject to immediate removal without notice. Keep signs on the house-side of the sidewalk on your own private property to stay protected.

Are political signs regulated by Middlesex County?

No. Political signs on private property are governed by each municipality's zoning ordinance under the Municipal Land Use Law. They are protected speech, so towns may impose only limited content-neutral size and placement rules.

Can my town limit political sign size?

Yes, within limits. A municipality may set content-neutral size, number, and setback rules and bar placement in the public right-of-way, but generally cannot treat political signs more strictly than other temporary signs.