CLARKSVILLE, IN (March 14, 2023) – The political season is in full swing and that means lots of yard signs going up across the Town of Clarksville.  Town code enforcement officials say they are seeing more signs across town as we get closer to Easter with local churches putting them out to advertise Easter services.

Building Commissioner Rick Barr says the signs become a problem when residents, who may not understand or know about the state/town sign codes, begin placing the signs in the public right of way or on public property.  Another problem is when signs endanger public safety such as if the sign is in an area which obstructs view of drivers.

“It doesn’t matter if the sign is supporting a political candidate, advertising a roofing company, or publicizing church service, they cannot be placed in the public right-of-way,” said Barr.  “As a result of the growing problem, our code enforcement officers will be picking them up in the coming days.”

If there is no sidewalk on the property, a good rule of thumb is to make sure signs are at least 6 feet from the road pavement. If there is a sidewalk, the signs must be placed on the side of the sidewalk closest to the home/business.  If you place it in the grass near the roadway, it is in the public right-of-way.

If a sign is illegally placed in the public right-of-way or on public property, it will be removed by the Building Commissioner’s staff.  Any confiscated signs will be held at the Building Commissioner’s office at Town Hall for 24 hours to be reclaimed. If not claimed during that time, the signs will be disposed of.

Anyone with questions regarding sign ordinances or Indiana Code may contact the Building Commissioner’s office at (812) 283-1510. You may also email questions to info@townofclarksville.com.