Oro Valley, AZ Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- State Preemption
- ARS 16-1019
- Permit Required
- No
- Max Size
- 32 sq ft on residential property
- Removal Deadline
- 15 days after election
- HOA Restriction
- Limited by ARS 33-1808
Summary
ARS 16-1019 preempts local regulation of political signs. Oro Valley residents may display political signs on private property without a permit, up to 32 square feet.
C. Notwithstanding any other statute, ordinance or regulation, a city, town or county of this state shall not remove, alter, deface or cover any political sign if the following conditions are met:
1. The sign is placed in a public right-of-way that is owned or controlled by that jurisdiction.
2. The sign supports or opposes a candidate for public office or it supports or opposes a ballot measure, question or issue.
3. The sign is not placed in a location that is hazardous to public safety, obstructs clear vision in the area or interferes with the requirements of the Americans with disabilities act (42 United States Code sections 12101 through 12213 and 47 United States Code sections 225 and 611).
4. The sign has a maximum area of sixteen square feet, if the sign is located in an area zoned for residential use, or a maximum area of thirty-two square feet if the sign is located in any other area.
5. The sign contains the name and telephone number or website address of the candidate or campaign committee contact person.
Full Breakdown
ARS 16-1019 establishes statewide rules for political signs that preempt stricter local ordinances. In Oro Valley, political signs may be placed on private property with the owner's consent without a permit. Signs cannot exceed 32 square feet on residential property. Political signs may not be placed in public rights-of-way, on utility poles, on traffic control devices, or within 75 feet of a polling place on election day. Signs must be removed within 15 days after the election to which they pertain. The Town of Oro Valley does not impose additional restrictions beyond state law. HOAs generally cannot prohibit political signs during election season under ARS 33-1808, though they may adopt reasonable rules regarding sign size and number consistent with state law. Signs placed on Town property or in medians will be removed by Public Works staff.
Violations & Fines
Signs placed on public property may be removed without notice. Failure to remove signs within 15 days after the election may result in the Town removing them and charging the candidate or committee for removal costs. ARS 16-1019 imposes civil penalties for tampering with or removing another person's political signs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Oro Valley regulate my political yard signs?
Can my HOA ban political signs?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Oro Valley
Compare Oro Valley to another location·View the Arizona sign regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Political Signs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Pima County handle political signs.