Candidate Signage - Statement Of Responsibility Instructions
Attention Candidate or Committee Member:
If you are a candidate for elective office or a proponent/opponent of a ballot measure, this is a reminder about local ordinances governing the placement of signs, including temporary political signs, in the unincorporated areas of Monterey County.
There is a blanket prohibition against all inanimate modes of expression, including political signs, when erected or affixed to public property or utility poles.
However, the County of Monterey's regulatory scheme does permit placement of temporary political signs on private property, excluding commercial billboards, under conditions summarized as follows:
1. The property owner has given permission for the sign placement.
2. The sign is placed no earlier than sixty (60) days prior to the scheduled election and is removed within ten (10) days after.
3. A "Statement of Responsibility" form has been filed with the Director of HCD certifying the person responsible for the placement AND removal of the sign(s).
4. The sign must comply with all building and zoning ordinances.
Please review the Monterey County Code of Ordinances related to the placement of political signs:
- Title 14, Chapter 14.30
- Title 16, Chapter 16.24
- Title 20, Chapter/Section 20.60.080 (CZ)
- Title 21, Chapter/Section 21.60.120
The ordinances direct the removal of signs that are not in compliance with the ordinances, and, direct the billing of fines to responsible party.
Please pass this information along to those assisting in your campaign. "Statement of Responsibility" form can be found here.
Completed forms must be sent or delivered to:
HCD Chief of Planning
1441 Schilling Place – South, 2nd Floor
Salinas, CA 93901
The form may be delivered to HCD Planning during normal business hours: 8am-4pm M-F.
NO SIGNS MAY BE POSTED UNTIL A "STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY" HAS BEEN RECEIVED BY THE HCD CHIEF OF PLANNING.