Destroying Political Signs in Michigan Could Land You in Jail

It's Political Season… again… and despite the never-ending onslaught of political discussions being held on every social media platform, people are fiercely loyal to who they want to be elected into office. Many people choose to show their unyielding support by purchasing yard signs to help build name recognition for other voters.

But times are tense, and sometimes, people act irrationally simply at the sight of their political opponent's name on a piece of cardboard. If you find yourself in this situation, and you think defacing, or tearing down someone's political sign feels like the best option… don't do it. Because in Michigan, it's illegal, and could even lead you to jail.

Usually, a few months before an election, yard signs will start popping up around communities for residents showing their support. But tempers have been flaring as of late, and even videos of people destroying or defacing political signage are popping up on social media.

The mere thought of someone even promoting the name of the person you're voting against is so vile that you have to do something. So, you tear it out of the ground, throw it away, or maybe even deface it with a sharpie.

That is illegal in Michigan.

Stealing, or defacing political signs in this state is a misdemeanor that can carry a maximum penalty of up to $500 in fines, or even 90 days in jail.

Most communities don't allow signs on utility poles, traffic signs, or trees, and are usually limited to the yards of private property. Community leaders also suggest keeping political signs out of the Right of Way on streets, which means on the side of the sidewalks furthest from the road.

The problem is, that makes these signs easy targets for haters.

As we get closer to this November's election, chances are, you're going to see a LOT more of these popping up, so just be aware that there are rules to follow, and even AFTER the election, all political signs must be removed within 10 days.

So go ahead, put out your “Trump 2024” and “Harris Walz” signs now, and be sure to keep an eye on them for any scars that might want to mess with them. But remember, come November 15th, they better be put away, or you could face yet another fine.

Michigan Politics: 1839-1960s