Political Sign Tampering Discouraged By Loudoun County Amidst November Election

LOUDOUN COUNTY, VA — Political disagreements between neighbors happen, but Loudoun County government is urging against unlawful removal or destruction of political signs.

Loudoun County government received several reports of political signs that may be unsafe to touch. One incident reported by NBC Washington involved an anti-Kamala Harris sign that some neighbors believed might contain an explosive device. Authorities were notified and determined the device was not a threat and was on private property. According to the news outlet, the sign had an alarm and cameras that would activate if it was tampered with.

According to the county, unauthorized removal of signs is considered a theft. On private property, political signs are considered legally protected speech and should only be removed by the property owner. In neighborhoods with a homeowners association, residents may contact their association if they believe the sign violates the community's rules.

The Loudoun County Office of Elections allows candidates to place campaign signs outside 40 feet of the Office of Elections and Voter Registration within 45 days of an election.

On public property, including right-of-way owned by the Virginia Department of Transportation, state and local laws apply. VDOT says "signs cannot be on or overhanging state right of way" along roads. The state agency may remove a sign when a state code violation occurs, "especially if it interferes with roadside maintenance or presents a safety hazard to motorists."

In Loudoun County, residents who believe a campaign sign violates the rules may submit an online inquiry to the county through the Loudoun Express Request system or call Loudoun County Zoning Enforcement at 703-777-0103. Any active safety risks from a sign may be reported to 911.

Within the towns of Hamilton, Hillsboro, Leesburg, Lovettsville, Middleburg, Purcellville or Round Hill, questions or complaints should be directed to the town offices, according to the county.