Santa Clara, CA Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

The City of Santa Clara permits political signs on private property with owner consent, subject to reasonable time, place, and manner regulations that do not discriminate based on content. Under California Outdoor Advertising Act and First Amendment protections, political signs receive strong legal protection. Typical rules allow political signs up to 32 square feet in residential zones without a permit, with larger signs permitted in commercial and industrial zones. Signs must not be placed in public right-of-way, on utility poles, traffic signs, or street trees. Sign posting is typically allowed 60-90 days before an election and must be removed within 10 days after the election. Signs cannot obstruct traffic visibility at intersections or driveways. The city cannot ban political signs more restrictively than other temporary signs under Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015). Illuminated or moving political signs are generally restricted to match other temporary sign rules.