Clifton, NJ Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Chapter 185, adopted in its current form August 18, 2009 by Ord. No. § 185-3 forbids erecting, placing or displaying a political sign on any public place or public facility, including streets, sidewalks, parks, medians, utility poles, public trees, litter receptacles, benches, bus shelters or fences, and any sign that projects onto or over public property is subject to removal by the City. On private property, a political sign needs the property owner's prior consent, and no one may remove, tear down, deface or destroy a lawfully placed political sign on private land without that owner's consent.

Signs also cannot unreasonably block pedestrian or vehicle traffic, interfere with bus boarding, or obstruct traffic signals, street signs, hydrants or mailboxes, and specific setbacks apply: three feet from any crosswalk, 10 feet from any fire hydrant, and five feet from any fire lane, fire call box, police call box or other emergency facility. A severability clause in § 185-4 preserves the rest of the chapter if any part is struck down as unconstitutional.