Union, NY Sign Regulations: Political Signs (2026)

Political and campaign signs are listed in § 300-52.3(S) among the signs authorized without a permit, though the section requires them to conform to the height, setback and size requirements in the sign chapter. The rule covers signs on behalf of candidates for public office or measures on election ballots and applies in all zoning districts.

Timing comes first. Signs cannot be erected earlier than 30 days prior to a primary or special election or 60 days prior to a general election, and all signs must be removed within five days following the election. Size comes next. The number of signs on one parcel is not restricted, but the total combined size cannot exceed 32 square feet in area or five feet in height from the surrounding grade. In residential zoning districts no individual sign can exceed 16 square feet. A sign cannot be built as a roof sign. A sign can be placed on any legally existing off-premises sign structure, as long as it does not cover an existing sign.

Placement is limited too. No sign can be located within or over a public right-of-way, and every sign must respect the visibility triangle in § 300-53.14, which keeps corner lots clear of obstructions within 25 feet of the intersection along each street line. The general sign rules add that signs shall not be placed on fences (§ 300-52.2(F)) and that signs on a curb, sidewalk, hydrant, utility pole or tree are prohibited (§ 300-52.5(N)). Subsection S(5) confirms the section does not prohibit bumper stickers, cartop signs and signs inside the window of a building.