Berkeley allows political signs on private property with residents permission, subject to size and placement limits in BMC Title 20, and protected by the First Amendment from content-based restrictions.
Political campaign signs are treated as temporary non-commercial signs under Berkeley's sign regulations in BMC Chapter 20 (Zoning Ordinance) and related Municipal Code sections. Residents may display political signs on their own property with the owner's permission. Typical limits include a maximum aggregate square footage per parcel, a height limit for freestanding signs, and a requirement not to block sight lines or obstruct sidewalks. Signs must be placed entirely on private property; placement in the public right of way, on utility poles, or on street trees is prohibited and subject to removal. Content-based time limits (such as requiring removal a set number of days after an election) are generally not enforced against political signs after Reed v. Town of Gilbert, but common practice is to remove signs within a reasonable period after the election.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Berkeley, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle political signs.
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