With the August 9th primary soon upon us, political signs have begun to pop up in yards, street corners, and medians. Per State law, 10 VSA Section 494, “signs to be maintained for not more than two weeks announcing an auction, or a campaign, drive, or event of a civic, philanthropic, or religious organization” are exempt from permitting requirements. While a permit is not needed for signs that meet this definition, signs should only be placed with permission from property owners or subject to fines under 13 VSA Section 303. All signs should be kept out of the public right of way as they may be removed by the municipality or State at any time in order to ensure the safe passage of traffic, mowing operations, or other required functions. Posting on utility poles is prohibited altogether and subject to fines. These same rules apply to yard sales, fall registrations for sports, and other community events. As most retail services or hiring agencies do not meet the definition of an exempt sign, these signs need permits and are not to be placed within rights of ways or on other government properties. As with all harvests, signs should be reaped after the two week period and stored properly until the next “planting season” comes.