UDOT warns of dangers from illegally placed campaign signs

SALT LAKE— With election season on the horizon, the Utah Department of Transportation is reminding residents and candidates to be careful of where they’re placing campaign signs.

According to a letter released from UDOT, “state and federal law prohibit campaign signs within state rights-of-way.”

An important message from the Utah Department of Transportation – Don’t place campaign signs in rights of way. pic.twitter.com/vFntMkWIRi

— Vote Utah (@ElectionsUtah) August 18, 2023

UDOT spokesperson John Gleason said maintaining safety is their main concern.

“If they end up in traffic or if they’re obstructing people’s views of turning or whatever they need to see on the road, that’s where it becomes a problem.”

Illegally placed signs can negatively impair visibility for drivers, and create dangerous debris on the road. These potential dangers pose safety risks to drivers, pedestrians, and workers.

“It can also be a challenge for our workers to have to get out there and remove signs,” explained Gleason.

UDOT releases the letter every year to state candidates as a safety reminder and is not a reflection of this year’s sign placement. 

Campaign signs that pose a threat to driver or resident safety may be collected by UDOT.

However, Gleason clarified that the signs will only be collected to improve safety.

“We’re not out to penalize anybody, we don’t throw the signs away.”

The letter details that if your signs are removed, they can be reclaimed until the end of the election.

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