Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Political Sign Restrictions Near Polling Places

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Key Facts

Prohibited Zone: 40 feet from entrance
Statute: Va. Code 24.2-604
Penalty Class: Class 1 misdemeanor
Maximum Fine: $2,500
Apparel Exception: Voters may wear gear

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Summary

Virginia state law creates a 40-foot prohibited area around polling place entrances on election day where political signs and electioneering are forbidden statewide.

During the times the polls are open and ballots are being counted, or within one hour of opening or after closing, it is unlawful for any person (i) to loiter or congregate within 40 feet of any entrance of any polling place; (ii) within such distance to give, tender, or exhibit any ballot, ticket, or other campaign or referendum material to any person or to solicit or in any manner attempt to influence any person in casting his vote; (iii) to hinder or delay a qualified voter in entering or leaving a polling place; or (iv) to (a) knowingly carry on or about his person any firearm as defined in § 18.2-308.2:2 and (b) knowingly do so within 100 feet of any building, or part thereof, used as a polling place.

Source: Virginia Legislative Information SystemView official code

Full Breakdown

Va. Code Section 24.2-604 makes it unlawful for any person to loiter or post political signs within 40 feet of any entrance to a polling place during the time the polls are open. Officers of election must post 'Prohibited Area' signs in two-inch type to mark this zone. The statute applies uniformly across every Virginia city, county, and town and supersedes any conflicting local sign rule on election day. Authorized representatives may distribute campaign literature outside the 40-foot zone. Violations are Class 1 misdemeanors. The law explicitly does not prohibit a voter wearing campaign apparel from entering to vote.

Violations & Penalties

Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine under Va. Code 18.2-11.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close to a Virginia polling place can a campaign sign be?

No closer than 40 feet from any entrance during polling hours. Local registrars mark the boundary with 'Prohibited Area' notices on election day.

Can localities expand the 40-foot zone?

No. The 40-foot prohibited area is set by state statute and applies uniformly. Localities cannot enlarge or shrink it through ordinance.

Sources

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