Political Signs: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do political signs rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Political signs in San Mateo are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code Section 18310. Signs on private property cannot be prohibited. Under state law, political signs may be posted up to 90 days before and must be removed within 10 days after an election.
View full San Mateo rules →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Unincorporated San Mateo County permits political signs on private property without permits, consistent with First Amendment protections and Reed v. Gilbert. Zoning Regulations §6408 sets general temporary sign limits. Signs in public rights-of-way and on County property are prohibited.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Private Property | Protected — cannot prohibit | 6 sq ft residential |
| Posting Period | 90 days before election | - |
| Removal | 10 days after election | - |
| State Law | CA Elections Code §18310 | - |
| HOA | CC §4710 — must allow signs | - |
| Permit | - | Not required |
| Right-of-Way | - | Prohibited |
| Post-Election | - | Remove within 10 days |
| Code | - | Zoning Regs §6408 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Mateo FAQ
Can San Mateo restrict political signs?
No. Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment and CA Elections Code §18310.
When can I post political signs?
Up to 90 days before an election. Signs must be removed within 10 days after the election.
Can my HOA ban political signs?
No. CA Civil Code §4710 requires HOAs to allow at least one political sign of reasonable size.
South San Francisco FAQ
Who enforces political signs rules in San Mateo County?
San Mateo County's code enforcement division is responsible for signs ordinances. You can report violations or request information through the San Mateo County government website or by calling the main municipal line.
What are typical penalties for violating political signs rules?
Most San Mateo 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 San Mateo County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.
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