Lawn signs touting local and statewide candidates are in full bloom along highways, street corners and other public spaces. Lessner is one of the Columbus Sign Ninjas, a group that sprang up in the perennial battleground state to take down campaign clutter from public spaces. Ohio, like other states, prohibits such advertising from being placed in the public right of way — which would include interstates and state routes. Officials don't want signs to obstruct drivers' views or present safety hazards. Harrop told the city solicitor's office this week that signs for independent candidate Buddy Cianci far exceed the size allowed by city ordinances. Ben Donahower, a Pennsylvania-based political consultant who sells lawn signs, said he advises campaigns to place signs on private property.