Louisiana Political Sign Rules Near Polling Places

Louisiana R.S. 18:1462 makes it unlawful to engage in election campaigning, including displaying political signs, placards, or campaign material, within 600 feet of any entrance to a polling place while polls are open. The statute applies statewide and is enforced by election officials, commissioners, and law enforcement. Outside this buffer, regulation of political signs on private property is generally subject to local ordinances bounded by First Amendment protections under Reed v. Town of Gilbert. State highway right-of-way sign placement is also regulated by Louisiana DOTD under La. R.S. 48:347 and the federal Highway Beautification Act, prohibiting unauthorized signs in state-controlled rights-of-way.

Violations of R.S. 18:1462 are punishable by fines up to $500 and imprisonment up to six months. DOTD may remove signs from state highway rights-of-way without notice and assess removal costs.