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Portland, OR Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Max size
3 square feet
Placement
Entirely outside right-of-way
Permit
None required
Illumination
Prohibited
Max civil penalty
$1,000 per violation

Summary

Portland has no separate political-sign ordinance; campaign yard signs are regulated the same as any other lawn sign under Title 32: capped at 3 square feet with no permit required.

Lawn sign. A freestanding sign made of lightweight materials such as cardboard or vinyl that is supported by a frame, pole, or other support structure placed directly in the ground without foundation or other anchor. ... J. Lawn signs. 1. General standards. Lawn signs ... are allowed in all zones ... 2. Size. Lawn signs may be up to 3 square feet in area. 3. Placement. Lawn signs must be entirely outside the right-of-way. 4. Sign features. Illumination, electric signs, and changing image sign features are prohibited.

Source: Portland City Code Title 32 — Signs and Related RegulationsView official code

Full Breakdown

Portland City Code does not single out political or campaign signs. They fall under the content-neutral "lawn sign" category in Chapter 32.32: a freestanding sign of lightweight material like cardboard or vinyl, staked directly in the ground without a foundation. Lawn signs are allowed in every zone, capped at 3 square feet, must sit entirely outside the public right-of-way, and cannot be illuminated or electrified. Because they're exempt from the Title 32 permit and registration system, no sign permit or fee is needed to post one on private property.

Violations & Fines

Bureau of Development Services can order a noncompliant sign corrected or removed; refusing to comply is a violation carrying civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation, with each day of continued noncompliance counted separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a political yard sign in Portland?
No. Lawn signs are explicitly exempt from Title 32's permit and registration requirement under City Code § 32.62.010.A.1.
Can I put a campaign sign in the planting strip next to the street?
No. Lawn signs must sit entirely outside the public right-of-way, which includes the planting strip between sidewalk and curb.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Portland

Window SignsSome RestrictionsDigital BillboardsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome Restrictions

All Portland rules

Compare Portland to another location·View the Oregon sign regulations overview

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