DANVILLE, Il. (Chambana Today) — The City of Danville is clarifying the use of signage during election season to help ensure that residents clearly understand rules set forth for property owners safety and the safety of others.

“We want to make sure everyone’s safety is protected when displaying political signs in yards,” said Rheanna Pierce, Community Relations Administrator for the City of Danville. ” Ordinances were set up to help protect citizens and rules have to be abided by for the safety of traffic, kids who may be close to roadways, near sidewalks and to make it safe for homeowners.”

For homeowners within the City of Danville, the following summary explains the current ordinance in straightforward terms.

Per Zoning Ordinance – 150.113.C.3: A political sign is a temporary sign that promotes a candidate for public office or expresses support for, or opposition to, a political issue or ballet question. Political signs do not require a permit, but they must comply with City ordinance requirements.

Political signs are not allowed in the public-right-of-way, which includes, but is not limited to sidewalks, streets, medians, parkways and grassy areas between sidewalks and streets. Signs may not be placed on private property without the property owner’s permission. Political signs are also prohibited on public property of any kind, including but not limited to city parking lots, parks and medians.

Political signs must meet the following standards:

  • Size limits
  • Residential zoning districts: no larger than 8 square feet.
  • Non-residential zoning districts, no larger than32 square feet.

Condition and safety:

  • Signs must be properly secured and maintained in good condition
  • Signs may not be torn, damages, or unstable

Design restrictions:

  • Signs may not be animated or illuminated
  • Reflective or light-emitting paint is not permitted

The Zoning Administrator is authorized to remove any political sign located in the public right-of-way or any sign that does not comply with Ordinance 150.113, without prior notice.

For more information, please contact the Electrical and Zoning Inspector at (217) 431-2335 or bsmothers@cityofdanville.org.