Political Signs: Santa Monica vs Topanga
How do political signs rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and Topanga, CA?
Santa Monica and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
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 →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
Political signs in unincorporated LA County are protected by CA state law and the First Amendment. May be placed 90 days before election, removed within 10 days after. Maximum 32 sq ft. Cannot be placed in public ROW or within 660 ft of landscaped freeway.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Monica | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Protected | First Amendment expression | - |
| Private Property | Generally allowed | - |
| Prohibited Types | Certain sign types restricted | - |
| Code | SMMC Ch. 9.61 | - |
| Timing | - | 90 days before to 10 days after |
| Max Size | - | 32 sq ft per state law |
| Location | - | Private property with permission |
| Freeway | - | Not within 660 ft of landscaped freeway |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Topanga FAQ
Can I put political signs in my yard in LA County?
Yes. Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code. No permit is required. Size limits under Title 22 may apply (typically 32 sq ft max in residential zones).
Can my HOA ban political signs?
Not within 90 days before an election. Civil Code 4710 protects the display of noncommercial signs, including political signs, during the election period. HOAs can set reasonable size limits but cannot ban them outright during this period.
When do I have to remove political signs?
Within 10 days after the election under California law. Signs left longer may be cited as sign code violations.
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