Chattanooga, TN Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- none for political signs
- Removal deadline
- 15 days after the election
- Primary-election signs
- may carry to general election
- Max sign size
- 32 sq ft
- Curb setback
- 5-10 ft depending on height
Summary
Chattanooga exempts political yard signs from its temporary sign permit, but requires them removed within 15 days after the election they refer to.
1.Permit Required. All temporary signs other than political signs must be permitted in accordance with Section 3-192 prior to placement or erection of such sign or banner. ... (e)All such political yard signs shall be removed within fifteen (15) days after the election to which they refer has been held. Such signs erected for a primary election may remain only if they continue to be valid for the next general election.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 40 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Unlike other temporary signs, political yard signs don't need a sign permit under Chattanooga's code. Like all yard signs they're capped at 32 square feet and must stay clear of trees, fences, and utility poles, but political signs carry their own removal deadline instead of the standard yard-sign display window: every political yard sign must come down within 15 days after the election it refers to, though a sign posted for a primary election may stay up if it remains valid for the following general election.
Violations & Fines
Signs left up past the removal deadline are a Chapter 3B violation: a misdemeanor fine of $25 to $50 per day, with the Land Development Office empowered to abate and lien the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a political yard sign in Chattanooga?
How long can a political sign stay up after an election?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chattanooga
Compare Chattanooga to another location·View the Tennessee sign regulations overview
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