Signage

Political Sign Regulations Within the Manhattan City Limits

The regulations for the display of political signs within the city limits of Manhattan are contained in Subsection 26-7D-7G of the Manhattan Development Code (MDC). This summary is provided only as general guidance.

When are political signs allowed?

Political signs are allowed 45 days before an election until two days after such election. 

Where are political signs allowed?

  • On private property, or within the right-of-way of city streets immediately adjacent to private property
  • At least 6 feet from the back of the curb
  • Political signs are not allowed:
    1. Within the center median
    2. Within the center island or splitter island of a roundabout
    3. In any placement or manner that obstructs or interferes with a clear-vision triangle or creates a safety hazard

What type of signs are allowed?

  • Unlighted signs that are not permanently affixed to the ground or to a building or other structure
  • A gross area of no more than 16 square feet
  • No more than 4 feet in height

Is permission or a permit required?

  • The property owner or tenant (or, for signs placed in the right-of-way of city streets, the owner or tenant of the adjacent private property) must grant permission for the placement of the sign(s)
  • No City sign permit is required

Who is liable?

The owner(s), and tenant(s), if any, of property where a political sign is displayed are responsible for any violation relating to the sign’s size or placement. The person, party, or parties responsible for the placement or distribution of a political sign are liable for its removal within two days after the election.

What about the right-of-way of state highways?

The Kansas Department of Transportation does not allow signs within the right-of-way of any State highway, which includes Seth Child Road (Hwy. 113), Fort Riley Boulevard (Hwy. 18), and Tuttle Creek Boulevard and East Poyntz Avenue (Highway 24). Riley County GIS may help to determine the location of the edge of the right-of-way along these routes.

If you have any questions, please call Risk Reduction at 785-587-4506.