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Campaign Tips

New to Running for Office?
We’re Here to Help.

The Florida Campaign Signs team has decades of experience working with local, regional, and statewide campaigns. We understand what candidates need to run successful races.

If you ever have questions, give us a call — 850-702-0122. We’re always happy to help.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from candidates.

Yard Signs

What Size Sign Should I Order?

We offer two standard yard sign sizes:

18″ x 24″ (Most Popular)

  • The most common size used in political campaigns
  • Highly visible in yards and at intersections
  • A great choice if you want maximum impact

12″ x 18″ (Budget-Friendly Option)

  • Smaller but still effective
  • A great option for campaigns watching their budget
  • Works well in residential yards and neighborhood areas

Rule of thumb: If you’re unsure, go with 18″ x 24″.

How Many Signs Do I Need?

This depends on your campaign budget and strategy.

Yard signs are valuable because they:

  • Increase name recognition
  • Show visible support across the community
  • Reinforce your name to voters before they see it on the ballot

Think of yard signs like billboards: the more often people see your name, the more familiar it becomes.

Another effect: when voters see multiple neighbors supporting the same candidate, it creates a sense of momentum.

A good strategy:

  1. Start with a manageable order
  2. Distribute them quickly
  3. Reorder as demand grows

When Should I Put Yard Signs Out?

There is no universal rule, but timing matters.

Advantages of Putting Signs Out Early

  • Demonstrates early support
  • Builds momentum for your campaign
  • Engages supporters who want to display their support
  • Encourages conversations with neighbors

Drawbacks of Putting Signs Out Too Early

  • Signs can fade or weather over time
  • Longer exposure increases the chance of theft or vandalism
  • May limit the signs you have available for new supporters throughout the race

Recommended Strategy: Put Signs Out in Waves

  • Start with your most enthusiastic supporters
  • Expand distribution as Election Day approaches
  • Build visible momentum in the final weeks

Pro Tip:

Save some signs for sign waving and election-day placement near precincts and major intersections.

What Information Should Be on My Sign?

The most important element on a campaign sign is your name.

Voters must quickly recognize it when they see it on the ballot.

Best Practices

  • Match your ballot name exactly
  • Use large, bold lettering
  • Make the sign readable at 30–50 mph
  • Keep the design simple and uncluttered

Design Tips

  • Use short taglines only
  • Choose colors that stand out
  • Simple fonts work best
  • Avoid putting your photo on the sign
  • Always include the required campaign disclaimer

Remember: clarity beats complexity.

When Should I Place My Order?

Ordering early is helpful, but many campaigns place multiple orders throughout the race.

This approach allows you to:

  • Manage your budget
  • Adjust quantities based on demand
  • Maintain fresh signs closer to Election Day

Just remember: unused campaign funds after Election Day don’t help your campaign.

Use the resources you raise to maximize visibility before voters head to the polls.

Pro Tip:

The best campaign signs are readable in under 2 seconds from a passing car.

Ready to order your campaign signs?

Road Sign Considerations

Large roadside signs require additional planning.

Important things to know:

  • Most road signs are printed one-sided
  • Frames are typically built by campaigns using 2×4 lumber
  • Signs are often supported by 4×4 posts

If you want a two-sided sign, simply mount two signs back-to-back in the frame.

Check Local Sign Regulations

Many counties regulate sign size and placement.

For example:

  • Some jurisdictions limit signs to 16 square feet
  • 3′ × 5′ sign (15 sq ft) may be allowed
  • 4′ × 6′ sign (24 sq ft) may require a permit

Also remember:

  • Signs should be placed on private property with permission
  • Signs in the right-of-way may be removed
  • Violating ordinances can lead to removal or penalties

Always review local rules before installing large signs.

Pro Tip:

Prioritize where you put road signs based on the highest traffic areas you can get. Where can you place these road signs where the most eyeballs will see them?

Ready to order your road signs?

Palm Cards & Door Hangers

Palm cards and door hangers are powerful tools when meeting voters.

They give people something to remember you by after a conversation.

Tips for Effective Campaign Literature

  • Keep messaging clear and concise
  • Use bullet points instead of long paragraphs
  • Match the colors, fonts, and branding used across your campaign
  • Include a QR code linking to your website
  • Provide a simple way for supporters to donate

Photo Tips

  • Use real photos of you and your supporters
  • Avoid stock images
  • Make sure images are high resolution to avoid pixelation when printed

Pro Tip:

Put your most impactful statements at the top. What do you want them to know about you if they only glance at your palm card?

Need help designing your materials?

Our team is happy to assist. Call 850-702-0122.

Ready to order your palm cards?

Campaign Disclaimers

Important note:
We are not election attorneys and regulations vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm disclaimer requirements with local election officials or legal counsel.

In most races, disclaimers must appear on campaign materials such as:

  • Yard signs
  • Road signs
  • Palm cards
  • Door hangers

Common Disclaimer Formats

Examples include:

“Political advertisement paid for and approved by (candidate name), (party affiliation), for (office sought).”

or

“Paid by (candidate name), (party affiliation), for (office sought).”

Rules can vary depending on:

  • The office being sought
  • Whether the race is partisan or non-partisan
  • Whether the candidate is an incumbent or write-in

Always verify requirements before printing.

Questions?

We’re here to help.
Call us anytime: 850-702-0122