Durham's UDO regulates signs but provides protections for political signs consistent with First Amendment requirements. Political signs on private property are generally permitted without a permit. Signs in the public right-of-way are prohibited. NC state law also protects the right to display political signs on residential property during election periods. Sign size limits may apply in residential zones.
Durham regulates political signs through its general sign ordinance while respecting First Amendment free speech protections. Political signs on private property are generally allowed with size restrictions, typically 6 to 32 square feet depending on zoning. Signs in public rights-of-way, on utility poles, and on public property are prohibited. Signs must not obstruct traffic sight lines or create safety hazards. Most jurisdictions require removal within 7 to 30 days after the election. Yard signs do not typically require permits. Content-based restrictions on political speech are unconstitutional per Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015).
Signs in right-of-way: removal by city, possible fine $25 to $100. Oversized signs: notice to reduce. Failure to remove post-election: fines $25 to $50 per day after grace period.
Durham, NC
Durham caps daytime sound at 60 dBA (8 AM to 11 PM) and nighttime sound at 50 dBA (11 PM to 8 AM) under Ch. 26, Sec. 26-23. Measured at property line using A...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO Section 9.9 limits residential fences to 4 feet in front yards and 8 feet in side and rear yards. Corner lots face additional restrictions along s...
Durham, NC
Durham does not require a permit for most residential fences or walls. Permits are required for retaining walls, pool barriers on single-family parcels, prop...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO Section 9.9 sets general fence standards including setbacks, orientation, and vision-clearance rules. Fences between structures and streets within...
Durham, NC
Durham requires a building permit for all retaining walls. Retaining walls over 4 feet at street frontage must be terraced in Design Districts. Walls over 8 ...
Durham, NC
Durham UDO 9.9 prohibits razor wire, concertina wire, and barbed wire in residential districts. Uncoated chain link is banned in CI and Design Districts.
See how Durham's political signs rules stack up against other locations.
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