Richmond, VA Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Section 24.2-604 of the Code of Virginia is the statute that controls campaign material at a polling place, and it applies at every Richmond precinct. Subsection A makes it unlawful for any person to loiter or congregate within 40 feet of any entrance of a polling place, and within that distance to give, tender, or exhibit any ballot, ticket, or other campaign or referendum material to any person. The same clause bars soliciting or attempting to influence a vote. The ban runs while the polls are open and ballots are being counted, and within one hour of opening or after closing.

Subsection B puts the posting duty on the officers of election. Before the polls open they post "Prohibited Area" notices in two-inch type within 40 feet of any entrance, and the notices must also state the provisions of the section in not less than 24-point type, placed to be visible to voters and the public.

Subsection C reaches inside the room. An authorized representative permitted in the polling place under § 24.2-604.4, any voter, or any other person in the room cannot exhibit campaign or referendum material, solicit votes, hinder or delay a voter or an officer of election, stand in a position to see another voter's marked ballot, or otherwise impede the orderly conduct of the election.

Subsection D protects voters: a person who approaches or enters the polling place to vote can wear a shirt, hat, or other apparel showing a candidate's name or a political slogan, or carry a sticker or button with the same. That exemption does not cover candidates, representatives of candidates, or anyone who comes for any purpose other than voting. Subsection E lets a candidate enter to vote, or visit for no longer than 10 minutes per polling place per election day, provided the candidate follows subsections A, C, and D.