Georgia Statewide Rule
Georgia Political Sign Rules on State Rights-of-Way
Key Facts
- Statute
- O.C.G.A. 32-6-51
- Right-of-way signs
- Removable without notice
- Private property
- Local rules apply
- Max penalty
- $1,000 misdemeanor
Summary
Georgia state law restricts placement of political and outdoor advertising signs on state highway rights-of-way and regulates them under the Outdoor Advertising Control Act, while local sign regulation must respect First Amendment limits.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to place posters, signs, or advertisements: (1) On any public property or building, unless the owner thereof or the occupier as authorized by such owner has given permission to place such posters, signs, or advertisements on such property; provided, however, that signs within the rights of way of public roads shall be governed by Code Section 32-6-51; (2) On any private property unless the owner thereof or the occupier as authorized by such owner has given permission to place such posters, signs, or advertisements on such property; and, provided, further that no municipal, county, or consolidated government may restrict by regulation or other means the length of time a political campaign sign may be displayed or the number of signs which may be displayed on private property for which permission has been granted; or (3) On any property zoned for commercial or industrial uses if the placement of such posters, signs, or advertisements conflicts with any zoning laws or ordinances.
Full Breakdown
O.C.G.A. Title 32, Chapter 6, Article 3 (Outdoor Advertising Control Act) prohibits unpermitted signs within state highway rights-of-way and along controlled routes. Georgia DOT may remove signs placed in the right-of-way without notice. Political signs on private property are protected speech, but cities may impose content-neutral size, setback, and durational rules consistent with Reed v. Town of Gilbert. Signs cannot obstruct sight distance at intersections or driver visibility per O.C.G.A. 32-6-51.
Violations & Penalties
Unpermitted signs in state right-of-way may be removed by GDOT without notice. Misdemeanor penalties up to $1,000 under O.C.G.A. 32-6-51 for obstruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put political signs in the public right-of-way in Georgia?
Do Georgia cities have to allow political signs on private lawns?
Sources
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