Marion County, OR Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Salem code
- SRC Chapter 900 (Sign Code)
- Lawn sign max area
- 6 square feet
- Lawn sign max height
- 30 inches above grade
- Display period
- Two 60-day periods/year
- Content-based limits
- Not allowed
Summary
Salem's sign code is content-neutral, so political yard signs follow the same rules as other lawn signs: up to six square feet and 30 inches tall, displayed in two 60-day periods per year, and not attached to poles or trees in the right-of-way.
Lawn signs shall not exceed a maximum display area of six square feet and shall not exceed a height of 30 inches above grade. Lawn signs may be displayed a maximum of two, 60-day continuous periods per year.
Full Breakdown
In Salem, the county seat, the Sign Code (Salem Revised Code Chapter 900) does not single out political signs; it regulates all lawn signs by size and time, not message. SRC 900.140(f) limits lawn signs to a maximum display area of six square feet and a height of 30 inches above grade, allowing two 60-day continuous display periods per year, and no sign permit is required for lawn signs on private property. Temporary signs cannot be attached to fences, trees, utility poles, or placed in the public right-of-way. The code expressly disclaims regulating speech by content or viewpoint, consistent with Reed v. Town of Gilbert.
Violations & Fines
Signs exceeding the size, height, or duration limits, or placed in the right-of-way or on utility poles or trees, may be removed by the city; the Director may order removal, generally after 30 days' notice for non-hazardous signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can a political sign be in Salem?
Can I put a campaign sign in the road right-of-way?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marion County
Compare Marion County to another location·View the Oregon sign regulations overview
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