Anderson Township removed 818 illegally placed signs in 2025, and the department says sign complaints typically increase as election season approaches.

The township's Planning and Zoning Department published updated guidance on Sunday, Aug. 16, reminding residents what's permitted across the township's nearly 200 miles of roadways. The rules apply to all temporary signs, including political yard signs, and regulate size and placement only. Content and message are not regulated.

Planning and Zoning Director Paul Drury said the regulations aim to prevent visual safety hazards and protect community character without limiting free speech or personal expression. The issue isn't new. Drury flagged illegal sign enforcement as a concern at the April 2 Board of Trustees meeting, months before the public reminder went out.

What's allowed

In residential zones, a temporary sign of 8 square feet or less can stay up for six months without a zoning certificate. One larger sign, up to 32 square feet, requires a certificate at $0.50 per square foot per side for each 12-day period, capped at 48 days per year.

Non-residential zones allow up to 16 square feet without a certificate for six months; anything larger needs a permit and the same 48-day annual limit.

All signs must typically sit at least 10 feet from the pavement edge or outside the right-of-way, whichever is greater, though the right-of-way can extend farther in some areas. Signs cannot be closer than 5 feet to another temporary sign or a property line.

What's not allowed

Temporary signs cannot go on public property, in public rights-of-way, on utility poles, or anywhere they create a safety hazard. Signs placed on private property require the owner's permission.

Signs found on public land get removed and stored for about 30 days. After that, the township discards them.

Limited enforcement staff

The township does not employ dedicated sign inspectors. Planners are cross-trained as zoning inspectors and have only a few hours each week for sign enforcement.

"With only several hours a week to devote to this effort, it's not easy to cover the nearly 200 miles of roadways in Anderson Township," Drury said. "This takes time and energy away from community planning and key enhancement efforts."

How to report a violation

Residents who spot an illegal sign can call (513) 688-8400, ext. 3, or email [email protected]. The Planning and Zoning office is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. A detailed Temporary Signage Quick Reference Guide is available on the Anderson Township website.