Bakersfield, CA Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- State Protection
- CA Elections Code §18370
- Protected Period
- 90 days before to 15 days after election
- Permit Required
- No permit for political signs
- Right-of-Way
- Signs prohibited in public ROW
- Restrictions
- Must be content-neutral
Summary
Bakersfield regulates signs under its sign ordinance in the zoning code (BMC Title 17). Political signs are afforded strong First Amendment protections. California Elections Code §18370 prohibits local governments from banning political signs within specified timeframes before and after elections.
A person shall not, on election day, or at any time that a voter may be casting a ballot, within the 100 foot limit specified in subdivision (b), do any of the following: (1) Circulate an initiative, referendum, recall, or nomination petition or any other petition. (2) Solicit a vote or speak to a voter on the subject of marking the voter's ballot. (3) Place a sign relating to voters' qualifications or speak to a voter on the subject of the voter's qualifications except as provided in Section 14240. (4) Do any electioneering as defined by Section 319.5.
Full Breakdown
Political signs on private property are protected by the First Amendment and California Elections Code §18370, which prevents cities from prohibiting political signs within 90 days before and 15 days after an election. Size restrictions may apply per the city's sign ordinance but must be content-neutral. Signs in the public right-of-way are generally prohibited. Political signs do not require permits. The city may regulate placement to ensure traffic safety and clear sight lines at intersections.
Violations & Fines
The city may remove signs placed in the public right-of-way or that create traffic hazards. Content-based restrictions on political signs are unconstitutional. Penalties for sign code violations are typically handled through code enforcement with notices to remove or correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put up political signs in my yard in Bakersfield?
Are there size limits on political signs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bakersfield
California rules heatmap·Compare Bakersfield to another location·View the California sign regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.