New South Memphis Political Sign Rules & Placement

Elections and Campaign Finance Tennessee 4 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In New South Memphis, Tennessee, political sign regulations are governed by the City of Memphis municipal code and state right-of-way rules. This guide explains where campaign signs may be placed on city streets, which local department enforces restrictions, how to apply for any required permissions or variances, and the typical process for filing a complaint or appeal.

Where political signs are allowed

Political signs are generally treated as temporary signs under the City of Memphis sign regulations; placement restrictions typically cover public right-of-way, visibility at intersections, and state highway corridors. Consult the municipal code for exact definitions of "right-of-way" and "temporary sign" to confirm allowed locations and size limits.[1]

  • Do not place signs on traffic control devices, utility poles, or within sight triangles at intersections.
  • Signs within state highway right-of-way may be regulated by the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
  • Temporary sign duration and removal after election day may be specified by local rule or state law.
Check state and city setbacks before installing signs on arterial streets.

Permits, variances and exemptions

Some political signs may be exempt from permitting as temporary campaign materials, while others near protected areas or on private property may require a permit or written consent from the property owner. The Planning or Code Enforcement office is the usual contact for permit applications and variances.[2]

  • If a permit is required, it will be issued by the City of Memphis Planning or Code Enforcement division.
  • Fees for permits, if any, are listed on the permitting form or the department fee schedule.
  • Requests for variances or expedited review may have specific filing deadlines prior to an election.
Some temporary election signs are allowed without a permit, but local rules still restrict placement and duration.

Applications & Forms

No single, citywide political sign permit form was published explicitly on the municipal code page; if a form is required the Planning or Code Enforcement department will issue it or provide instructions on submission.[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of political sign rules is carried out by the City of Memphis Code Enforcement and related municipal departments; state-managed rights-of-way along highways may be enforced by TDOT. The municipal code and department pages describe prohibited conduct and removal authority for city officers.[1][2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation for repeat or continuing offences: not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal of signs, abatement orders, and seizure/disposal of unauthorized signs are authorized in the municipal enforcement provisions.
  • Appeals and review: appeals procedures and timelines are handled through municipal administrative review or local hearing officers; specific time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • To report violations or request inspection contact City of Memphis Code Enforcement via the official department page.

Common violations include:

  • Placement in the public right-of-way where prohibited.
  • Obstruction of sight lines at intersections or driveways.
  • Failure to remove temporary signs within required post-election timeframes.

Applications & Forms

If a formal application is required, the Planning or Code Enforcement division publishes the form and fee schedule; if no form is available online, applicants are advised to contact the department directly for instructions.[2]

Keep a photo record and property-owner permission when placing signs on private property.

How to comply — action steps

  1. Confirm whether the sign will be on private property or within public right-of-way.
  2. Contact City of Memphis Code Enforcement or Planning for guidance and to request any required permits or variances.
  3. Ensure signs do not obstruct intersections, traffic control devices, sidewalks, or ADA access.
  4. Note removal deadlines after election day and remove unauthorized signs promptly.

FAQ

Do political signs require a permit in New South Memphis?
It depends on location and size; the municipal code treats many campaign signs as temporary and exempt, but specific permit requirements should be confirmed with Code Enforcement or Planning.[2]
Can I place a sign on a city-owned street tree or light pole?
No, attaching signs to street trees, traffic devices, or utility poles is generally prohibited under city rules and state right-of-way regulations.[1]
Who removes illegal signs?
City enforcement officers or authorized contractors may remove signs placed illegally on public property; signs on state highways may be removed under TDOT authority.
How do I appeal a removal or fine?
Appeal routes follow municipal administrative procedures; contact the enforcing department for filing deadlines and required forms.

How-To

  1. Identify the exact location where you want to place the sign and determine whether it is public right-of-way or private property.
  2. Check the City of Memphis sign rules and state right-of-way restrictions to confirm allowable placement and size.[1]
  3. If needed, request a permit or variance from City of Memphis Planning or Code Enforcement and obtain written permission from private property owners.
  4. Place signs so they do not block sight lines, sidewalks, ramps, or traffic control devices.
  5. Remove all temporary signs within the timeframe required by local rules or promptly after the election.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify right-of-way versus private property before installing signs.
  • Contact City of Memphis Code Enforcement or Planning if you are unsure about permits.
  • Unauthorized signs may be removed and could lead to fines or abatement orders.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Code of Ordinances (Municode)
  2. [2] City of Memphis Code Enforcement
  3. [3] Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data