Is it against Maine law to take down political signs? | Fact brief

It is against Maine law to remove someone else’s political signs without authorization. 

Fines range up to $250 for unlawful sign removal from a public right-of-way. A separate statute covers theft of property — including signs — from private land, allowing fines up to $1,000.

Signs must be removed by the person or group that placed them, or by someone they designate. Landowners also may remove signs placed on their private property, according to multiple municipalities.

Maine law limits how long political signs may remain in public spaces. They can be displayed for up to 12 weeks per year — no more than six weeks in each half-year — and must be no larger than 4 by 8 feet. Campaigns must remove their signs promptly after an election or when the display period ends. 

Anyone who finds a misplaced or damaged sign should leave it and contact the campaign.