Is It Illegal to Take or Vandalize Political Signs in Michigan?

It's that time of year again when political street signs seem to sprout up everywhere along Michigan's streets.

While the sight of political signs might occasionally appear obnoxious, and you may not agree with the message or candidate they represent, it's important to remember that it doesn't give you the right to take matters into your own hands.

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The other day on my way home from work, I was stopped at a red light, and the guy next to me was filming something on his phone. At first, I thought his focus was on the truck in front of me, but as I looked around, I realized he was recording something that was happening in the parking lot next to us.

Two men were loading their truck with political signs endorsing a particular candidate. It was very obvious by their behavior that they were taking the signs from a candidate that they disagreed with. This left me wondering about the legality of their actions.

Is It Illegal to Steal or Vandalize Political Signs in Michigan?

According to WILX, stealing or defacing political signs is a misdemeanor in Michigan that can carry a maximum penalty of a $500 fine or imprisonment of up to 90 days in jail.

Stealing or vandalizing political signs is pretty much the same as damaging or stealing any other type of private property.

According to the Michigan Department of Transportation, these are the rules for placing political signs:

• Political candidates are responsible for obtaining approval from the adjacent property owner to place the signs.
• Signs must be removed within 10 days following an election.
• Signs must be more than 30 feet from the edge of the roadway.
• Signs are not permitted within areas used for clear vision at intersections or commercial driveways.
• Any illegally placed signs will be removed.