Federal Way, WA Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Federal Way's sign code in Federal Way Revised Code Title 19 treats political (temporary) signs as a permissible exempt category with content-neutral rules consistent with Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015). Political signs may be placed on private property with the owner's consent, and many municipalities in Washington allow them from roughly 60 days before an election through 7 days after, though courts have increasingly relaxed the pre-election window. Individual signs in residential zones cannot exceed 6 square feet in area and 5 feet in height; commercial zones typically allow up to 32 square feet. No permit or fee is required. Political signs in the public right-of-way (parking strips, traffic islands, utility poles, medians) are prohibited under FWRC and are subject to removal by city crews without notice to the candidate. Signs on state highways (Pacific Highway South / SR 99, I-5, SR 18, SR 161) are regulated by WSDOT under RCW 47.42 and also cannot be placed in the right-of-way. First Amendment protections prevent Federal Way from restricting sign content or requiring campaign registration, but reasonable time, place, and manner rules are enforceable. Signs creating safety hazards by blocking sight lines at intersections can be removed immediately. Contact Federal Way Code Compliance at 253-835-2641 for questions about sign placement.