Political Signs: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do political signs rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles regulates political signs as part of its content-neutral temporary sign rules under LAMC 91.6217. Residential properties may display temporary signs up to 12 square feet without a permit. Signs cannot be placed in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, or illuminated. After Reed v Gilbert, the city rewrote restrictions to apply equally to all temporary signs regardless of message.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Political and noncommercial signs are protected expression in Santa Monica. The sign code permits noncommercial signs provided they are not of prohibited types. Temporary signs on private property are generally allowed for political expression.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Protected | - | First Amendment expression |
| Private Property | - | Generally allowed |
| Prohibited Types | - | Certain sign types restricted |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 9.61 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
When can I put up a political sign in LA?
Any time. After Reed v Gilbert, LA removed its 60-day election-window rule. Temporary signs follow the same content-neutral standards year-round.
How big can my political sign be?
Up to 12 square feet in aggregate on a residential property without a permit. Larger or commercial-zone signs may require permits under LAMC 14.4.
Can I post a sign on a utility pole or parkway?
No. Placement in the public right-of-way, on utility poles, street trees, or parkways is prohibited and the sign will be removed without notice.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I put a political sign in my yard?
Yes. Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment. Size limits apply, typically 6 to 32 square feet depending on your zone.
Can my HOA ban political signs?
Many states have laws limiting HOA ability to ban political signs. Check state law — most allow reasonable political signage during election seasons even in HOA communities.
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