Did You Know Stealing Political Signs in Michigan Could Land You in Jail?

It's political season here in Michigan, and since we live in a swing state our local and national races are getting a little heated.

Unfortunately, just like with some sports, there are some sore sports out there that will do anything it takes to win- even cheating. So, if you're tempted to deface, or even swipe, a political sign in your neighborhood, it could come with some serious consequences.

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In Michigan, tampering with or stealing political signs isn’t just frowned upon—it’s illegal. Whether you agree with the message or not, defacing or removing political signs can land you in serious trouble.

If you’re caught stealing or damaging a political sign, you could face a misdemeanor charge, a fine of up to $500, and even spend 90 days in jail. So, while political tensions may run high, taking matters into your own hands could cost you much more than a disagreement with your neighbor.

However, before assuming your political yard sign was stolen, you might want to check in with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). If your sign was placed improperly, MDOT has the authority to remove it and hold it, as political signs must adhere to specific regulations in Michigan. If your sign was picked up by MDOT, they’ll often keep it for you to retrieve later.

To ensure your political signs stay where they belong, it’s essential to follow Michigan’s rules for placing them legally:

According to MDOT:

• Political signs are allowed only on private property—not within the public right-of-way. (That's the strip of grass between your sidewalk and the road.)
• They cannot be placed on state highways or any property owned by MDOT.
• Additionally, signs must be at least 30 feet from the roadway on roads without curbs and 3 feet away from curbs on other roads.
• Signs should not be higher than 3 feet to ensure they don’t obstruct the view of drivers.
• Also, make sure you don’t place your sign more than 45 days before the election, and be sure to remove it within 10 days after.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid losing your signs and stay on the right side of the law! For more detailed information, you can visit the MDOT website.