Political signs legal or public nuisance?

CINCINNATI - As the election approaches, political signs on roadways are popping up faster than dandelions in springtime.

But are they legal?

It all depends on the jurisdiction.

In Lebanon, they are not permitted on public property, including roadways, but workers in the zoning department say they rarely bother to remove them unless there is a complaint.

Signs are supposed to be 10 feet back from any public right of way, including sidewalks according to the city's zoning guidelines.

In Blue Ash, the city designates specific public spots where signs can be placed, like near the old Blue Ash Airport.

Signs on state and national roadways outside of incorporated areas are illegal in Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

However, Ohio Department of Transportation District 8 spokesperson Sharon Smigielski says the law isn't vigorously enforced.

"If we get a complaint about a sign, we'll remove it," she said. "Unless there's an issue with it, we're not removing them right now."

Highways and interstates that pass through incorporated areas such as villages, towns and cities fall under those respective jurisdictions.

Smigielski advises the public not to take it upon themselves to remove offending signage, for safety reasons.

Whether removing a sign by someone other than the land or sign owner is legal is unclear.

Most communities allow temporary political signs to be posted on private property with the owner's permission during election season.