Kansas Statewide Rule
Kansas Political Sign Preemption Law
Key Facts
- Statute
- K.S.A. 25-2711
- Protected window
- 45 days before, 2 after
- Where
- Private property
- Local exception
- Size, safety setbacks only
- Enacted
- 2015
Summary
Kansas state law prohibits cities and counties from regulating the placement or number of political signs on private property during the 45 days before any election and the two days after the election, with narrow safety exceptions.
25-2711. Placement of political signs during election period. No city or county shall regulate or prohibit the placement of or the number of political signs on private property or the unpaved right-of-way for city streets or county roads on private property during the 45-day period prior to any election and the two-day period following any such election. Cities and counties may regulate the size and a set-back distance for the placement of signs so as not to impede sight lines or sight distance for safety reasons.
Full Breakdown
Under K.S.A. 25-2711, no Kansas city, county, or other political subdivision may regulate or prohibit the placement of, or the number of, political signs on private property or on the unpaved right-of-way for city streets or county roads on private property during the 45-day period before any election and the two-day period after the election. Local governments retain limited authority to regulate sign size and set-back distances solely to protect sight lines and traffic safety. The Kansas Attorney General has confirmed the statute's constitutionality. HOA covenants are not affected by this preemption.
Violations & Penalties
Local ordinances conflicting with K.S.A. 25-2711 are unenforceable. Property owners may sue municipalities or seek injunctive relief; sign removal during the protected window may expose officials to liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my city limit how many political signs I display before an election?
Can a city still regulate political sign size?
Does this law override my HOA's sign rules?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.