LEONARDTOWN, Md. (April 30, 2010)—The November elections are drawing near and political signs will soon start to litter the landscape. However, in many jurisdictions, complete freedom of political speech does not apply. There are often restrictions on the size and placement of signs.
Restrictions ease this year as federal courts have found unconstitutional local laws that restrict the length of time political campaign signs may be displayed by residents on their private property. St. Mary's County had such restrictions, which are no longer binding.
The current regulations pertaining to political campaign signs in St. Mary's County include:
-- The maximum allowed size is 32 square feet;
-- Signs may be erected in all zoning districts;
-- Illuminated signs are prohibited;
-- Signs shall not be affixed to any public structure; and
-- Signs shall not be erected in the public right-of-way.
Regulations regarding political signs are defined in the St. Mary's County Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.