Can I place a campaign sign in the ditch along a state highway?

No. The ditch is part of the state highway right-of-way. Signs there can be removed by NDDOT without notice. Place signs only on private property with the owner's permission.

How far back from the road must a political sign sit?

There is no fixed setback in feet, but signs must be entirely off the public right-of-way. The ROW boundary varies by corridor; check with NDDOT or the county for local right-of-way limits.

Do these rules apply to city streets too?

State preemption applies to interstate and primary highways. Cities may set their own political-sign rules for purely local streets, though those must still respect First Amendment protections.

North Dakota Political Signs (2026)

Key Facts

Statutory authority: NDCC chapter 24-17
Right-of-way rule: No signs without DOT permit
Removal authority: ND DOT
Federal basis: Highway Beautification Act
Local override: Not for state highways

Source: North Dakota Legislative Branch

Full Breakdown

NDCC 24-17 implements the federal Highway Beautification Act, prohibiting most signs within the right-of-way of interstate and primary highways and regulating off-premises signs in adjacent areas. NDCC 24-17-04 forbids any sign placed on or overhanging public highway right-of-way without DOT authorization. Political campaign signs placed in state highway ROW may be removed by the Department of Transportation without notice or compensation. The statute applies statewide and cannot be loosened by municipal ordinance for state-maintained roads, though cities retain authority over local streets. Signs must also avoid imitating traffic-control devices.

Violations & Penalties

Signs removed without notice or compensation; class B misdemeanor for repeat or willful placement; restoration costs assessed against owner; loss of sign permits.

North Dakota Political Signs Along State Highways

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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