Rutherford County, TN Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing rule
- Zoning Ordinance Section 1206
- Permit
- None for temporary signs
- Area (5 acres or less)
- 32 sq ft, up to 5 signs
- Max height
- 6 feet freestanding
- Right-of-way
- Not allowed
Summary
In unincorporated Rutherford County, temporary non-commercial signs, including political and campaign signs, may be posted on any residential lot at any time. On lots of five acres or less you may have up to 32 total square feet, split into up to five signs of no more than 16 square
temporary non-commercial signage may be posted on any lot in a residential district at any given time... Sign area for lots of five acres or less – 32 total square feet maximum, which may be divided into a maximum of five signs, provided that no single sign may exceed 16 square feet in area.
Full Breakdown
Section 1206 of the Rutherford County Zoning Ordinance covers temporary signage in the unincorporated county. Temporary non-commercial signage (which includes political/campaign signs) may be posted on any lot in a residential district at any given time, with no permit. On lots of five acres or less, total sign area is capped at 32 square feet divided among up to five signs, none larger than 16 square feet; larger lots also get 32 square feet total. Freestanding temporary signs may be up to 6 feet tall, may not be illuminated, and are not allowed in the right-of-way. Signs must be removed within 48 hours of no longer serving a purpose.
Violations & Fines
Sign violations are administered by the Director of Building Codes; any person violating the sign regulations is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, fined not more than $50.00, with each day of continuance a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many political signs can I put in my yard?
Can I put a campaign sign on the road right-of-way?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rutherford County
Compare Rutherford County to another location·View the Tennessee sign regulations overview
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