This paraphrases some of the political signage guidance from the Knox County Election Commission.

Tennessee Freedom of Speech Act (Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-143) overrides local regulations and sets minimums that:

1. Signs may go up 60 days before voting begins (Feb 14th for the May 5 primary)
2. Commercial property may have up to 32 sq ft signs on commercial property, and 16 sq ft signs (4×4) on residential property.
3. Homeowner covenants and restrictions may not override this for residential property, but they may have reasonable rules on where signs are placed. In other words, you may put a political sign up even if your HOA says no, and give them this Tennessee statute for reference.

Property / ROW in City of Knoxville

Signs are regulated by City of Knoxville Zoning Ordinance 13.3 W

City of Knoxville ROW – political signs are not allowed. Check the KGIS Maps website for the best depiction of where the city limits are – lots of finger annexations.

Private Property in City of Knoxville – Can go up 60 days before voting begins (Feb 14). Maximum size of 32 sq ft (two 4×4 signs). Removed by 5 days after election.

Unincorporated Knox County

Signs are regulated by Knox County Zoning Ordinance 3.90 3.90.02.H.6 plus highway department regulations that are not published

Knox County ROW – Yes, but for more than 30 days. No temporary sign shall be erected at the intersection of any street in such a manner as to obstruct free and clear vision

Private Property: 60 days before voting begins, maximum size 32 sq ft. Removed 5 days after election. No limit on number of signs.

Town of Farragut

Farragut ROW – not allowed, and right-of-way is shall be deemed to extend 12 feet back from the back of street curb or the outer edge of street pavement where no curbing exists

Private Property: 60 days before voting begins. Residential Max Size: 16 sq ft, 60 days before voting begins. Commercial max size: 32 sq feet. Remove 1 day after election.

Voting Locations

Other regulations available at the Knox County Election Commission website: https://www.knoxcounty.org/election/pdfs/Signage.pdf