The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reminds political candidates and property owners that campaign, yard sale, business, and other non-official signs are prohibited on state highway right-of-way.
For the safety of drivers as well as for employees and contractors who work to maintain the state’s roadways, Kentucky law and Transportation Cabinet policy prohibit the placement of any non-official signs on state right-of-way. The prohibition includes both free-standing signs and signage attached to permanent state highway signs, utility poles, and guardrails.
Illegally placed signs are a distraction and can be a safety issue for motorists when blocking the view of oncoming vehicles. They can also endanger mowing crews or pose a hazard to drivers who run off the roadway – particularly when installed with large wooden or metal stakes.
State highway crews will remove signs as needed, especially during roadside mowing operations.
Candidates and property owners should check to make sure all signs are off the state right-of-way. Where right-of-way markers or fences are not visible, in general, the right-of-way extends from 15 to 30 feet from the edge of pavement.
Signage should be behind sidewalks or behind the ditch line and outside areas commonly mowed or maintained by the state. On four-lane highways with controlled access or limited access, no signs or other materials should be placed on the highway side of the fence or on the fence itself.
Removed signs will be held at state maintenance facilities in each county for five days. Unclaimed materials will be discarded or recycled.