Some laws in Missouri relate to political signs in your yard

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There are laws regarding political yard signs in the U.S., including Missouri. Different states have different laws, but generally, political yard signs on your property have to include who is responsible for the sign advertisement.

HOAs and political signs

If you have an HOA (homeowners association) you belong to in your neighborhood, there may be rules associated with your HOA and political yard signs. In Missouri, the applicable statute regarding political signs and HOAs is Mo. Rev. Stat. § 442.404 (2024), which states in part:

(2) A homeowners’ association has the authority to adopt reasonable rules, subject to any applicable statutes or ordinances, regarding the time, size, place, number, and manner of display of political signs.

(3) A homeowners’ association may remove a political sign without liability if such sign is placed within the common ground, threatens the public health or safety, violates an applicable statute or ordinance, is accompanied by sound or music, or if any other materials are attached to the political sign....

If you have an HOA, check with its board or documents regarding political signs in your yard. Also, check with your state laws regarding the subject. Some states ban HOAs from prohibiting signs, but they might allow them a voice on the size or where they can be placed.

First Amendment and political signs

You won't find language that specifically relates to political signs in the First Amendment. The signs, however, are just like other things such as books, movies, and songs protected as speech.

You can place a sign on your private property, get a bumper sticker, or other sticker for your purse or backpack. There are likely local ordinances that won't allow you to put a billboard in your yard due to safety reasons.

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Political activity near polling venues

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), states have rules, ordinances, statutes, and laws associated with where political material or activity can be at polling venues.

In Missouri, campaign materials (signs, banners, or literature) have to be placed at least 25 ft. from the building's outer door closest to the polling area. See, Mo. Rev. Stat. § 115.637 (18) (2018).

Political signs play a significant role in the electoral process, especially in a state like Missouri, where local laws govern their usage. Understanding Missouri laws on political signs is essential for candidates and supporters.

Political signs are valuable tools for communication and engagement. They can also be conversation starters in your neighborhood. (I’m not referring to hateful rhetoric.) There are people in the world who can engage in a conversation civilly and constructively. Political signage can also encourage voting.

In Missouri, the last day to register to vote in the General Election on November 5, 2024, is October 9, 2024.

Thanks for reading.