Carmel, IN Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Number of signs
- No restriction
- Total area
- 16 sq ft per premises
- Max height
- 6 feet
- Setback from ROW
- 5 feet minimum
- Permit/time limit
- None required
Summary
Carmel regulates yard signs by size and placement, not by message, consistent with the First Amendment. Residential yard signs have no number or time limit, up to 16 square feet total per property, and must sit at least 5 feet from the street right-of-way.
Temporary Sign; Yard Signs in a Residential District: Number and Type: No restrictions. Maximum Sign Area: Sixteen (16) square feet total for premises. Maximum Height of Ground Sign: Six (6) feet. Time: No time limit. Fees: Not required.
Full Breakdown
Carmel UDO Section 5.39(P) covers temporary yard signs in a residential district. There is no restriction on the number of signs and no time limit, so political signs are allowed year-round. The total sign area is capped at 16 square feet for the premises, a ground sign may be up to 6 feet tall, and signs must be at least 5 feet from the street right-of-way. No permit or fee is required. The ordinance is content-neutral and expressly interpreted consistent with the First Amendment, so the same size and location rules apply to campaign, cause, and other yard signs.
Violations & Fines
Signs exceeding 16 square feet total, over 6 feet tall, in the right-of-way, or on utility poles/public property violate UDO 5.39 and may be removed by the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many political signs can I put up?
Can I put a sign on the tree lawn or utility pole?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Carmel
Compare Carmel to another location·View the Indiana sign regulations overview
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