Political Signs: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do political signs rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix regulates political signs under Section 705 of the Zoning Ordinance, treating them as temporary signs. Arizona state law (A.R.S. §16-1019) preempts most local political-sign rules during a defined campaign window. Residential properties may display non-illuminated political signs up to 32 square feet aggregate. Signs in the public right-of-way are restricted but allowed in certain medians under state law.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Arizona law (ARS 16-1019) protects the right to display political signs on residential property. Tempe cannot prohibit political signs on private property within reasonable size limits. Signs may generally be placed 60 days before an election and must be removed 15 days after. HOAs cannot prohibit political signs within the statutory time period.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| State Law | - | ARS 16-1019 protects political sign rights |
| Display Period | - | 71 days before primary through 15 days after general |
| Size | - | Reasonable size limits, typically 4x4 ft residential |
| HOA | - | ARS 33-1808 prevents HOA bans during display period |
| Public Property | - | Prohibited on public land, right-of-way, utility poles |
| First Amendment | - | Strong constitutional protection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
When can I put up a political sign in Phoenix?
Under Arizona state law, political signs may be in the public right-of-way from 71 days before a primary through 15 days after the general election. On private property, content-neutral temporary sign rules apply year-round.
How big can my sign be?
Up to 32 square feet aggregate on a residential parcel without a permit. The state law right-of-way allowance has its own size limits.
Can I place a political sign in the public right-of-way?
Sometimes. Arizona law allows political signs in certain right-of-way locations during the campaign window, but not on sidewalks, sight-obstructing medians, or safety-hazard locations.
Tempe FAQ
Can I put a political sign in my Tempe yard?
Yes. Arizona law (ARS 16-1019) protects your right to display political signs on your property within reasonable size limits during the statutory period.
Can my HOA ban political signs?
No. Arizona law (ARS 33-1808) prevents HOAs from prohibiting political signs during the statutory display period (71 days before primary through 15 days after general).
When do I have to remove political signs?
Within 15 days after the general election. Signs remaining after this period may be cited as a sign code violation.
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