As 2023 election campaigns ramp up, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is reminding both political candidates and the public that campaign signs are not permitted within the right-of-way on state highways.
The warning is in accordance with Section 63-3-317 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated.
The width of highway right-of-way varies by location and includes the driving lanes, shoulders, and mowed areas. The right-of-way can potentially reach distances of 300 feet or more from the centerline of driving lanes.
In order to maintain traffic safety, MDOT is asking people to take note of the following points:
- Illegally placed campaign signs contribute to our state’s $3.2 million litter problem that spoils Mississippi’s natural beauty.
- Any illegally placed signs will be removed.
- Keeping the right-of-way clear prevents safety hazards and interference with the traveling public along roadways.
- Signs with steel or wooden posts pose potential hazards that may cause harm to roadside workers, may damage roadside equipment, and may become projectiles if hit by mowers.
- Signs are not permitted within areas necessary for clear vision at intersections; signs must not interfere with the sight distance of a driver.
- No signs are allowed in limited access right-of-way.
- Typically, the right-of-way is larger near roadway intersections.
- Signs removed by MDOT crews will be kept for two weeks at a local MDOT maintenance facility before being discarded.
- Candidates may retrieve signs from MDOT without penalty.
For information about right-of-way distances in specific areas along a state-maintained highway, call your local MDOT maintenance facility.
