Fort Worth, TX Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Local Code
- Chapter 29 (Signs)
- State Law
- TX Election Code Sec. 259.002
- Permit Required
- No: political signs exempt on residential property
- Display Period
- 90 days before to 10 days after election
- HOA Restriction
- Prohibited during display period (TX Property Code)
Summary
Fort Worth Code Chapter 29 regulates signs but must comply with Texas Election Code Sec. 259.002 which protects the right to display political signs. Property owners may display political signs on their property without a permit. Signs may be placed beginning 90 days before an election and must be removed 10 days after. Texas law prohibits HOAs from restricting political signs during the permitted period. Fort Worth's sign ordinance exempts political signs from most size and permit requirements on residential property.
Sec. 259.003. REGULATION OF POLITICAL SIGNS BY MUNICIPALITY. (a) In this section, "private real property" does not include real property subject to an easement or other encumbrance that allows a municipality to use the property for a public purpose.(b) A municipal charter provision or ordinance that regulates signs may not, for a sign that contains primarily a political message and that is located on private real property with the consent of the property owner:(1) prohibit the sign from being placed;(2) require a permit or approval of the municipality or impose a fee for the sign to be placed;(3) restrict the size of the sign; or(4) provide for a charge for the removal of a political sign that is greater than the charge for removal of other signs regulated by ordinance.
Full Breakdown
Fort Worth regulates political signs through its general sign ordinance while respecting First Amendment free speech protections. 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. Yard signs do not typically require permits. Content-based restrictions on political speech are unconstitutional per Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a political sign in my yard in Fort Worth?
Can my HOA ban political signs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Worth
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Fort Worth to another location·View the Texas sign regulations overview
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Political Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle political signs.