Illegal signs can be due to location, content, size, shape, and lighting. Signage laws vary worldwide, and people should consult local officials for specific information. Governments can remove illegal signs and assess fines. Aesthetic codes in some communities may also affect signage legality.
Illegal signs may include signs placed in illegal locations, signs with illegal content, or signs that violate size, shape, and lighting prohibitions. Signage laws vary widely around the world. Signs that are legal in one location may be illegal in another, and people concerned about following the law should consult local officials for specific information about signs. When government officials identify illegal signs, they can take actions such as removing them and assessing a fine.
Illegal locations can include signs too close to waterways and roadways, signs placed in distracting locations, and so on. Sometimes, the legality of a place depends on the context. Many governments, for example, ban political materials in the immediate vicinity of a polling station. A polling sign might be illegal in the backyard of a house next to the polling place, but it’s fine on the corner, as it will be far enough away to satisfy the laws. Sign location laws usually provide specific measurements to help people place signs correctly and help people avoid illegal signs.
Signs may also be illegal due to their content, depending on the region. Some countries prohibit sexually explicit material, false advertising, or incitement to criminal activity on signs. A billboard of a naked woman may be legal in one country and not in another. The legality of the content may also depend on the location. In some cases, for example, cigarette ads aren’t allowed near schools or school bus routes, but are acceptable in other locations.
Size, shape and lighting can also be a problem with illegal signs. Things like animated billboards may be banned in some municipalities, as well as extremely large signs that can interfere with visibility and safety. Usually, city codes discuss limitations on the size and construction of signs so that people can place signs correctly and make sure they comply with the law. In some cases, people may need special permission for a particular type of signage, giving community members the ability to offer feedback on whether or not they approve of installing a sign in a particular location.
In historic districts and some communities, illegal signage may include signs that do not meet the aesthetic code of the neighborhood. These codes create a specific look and feel, by legislating things like signage, appropriate paint colors, and so on. In this case, people can be sued and asked to replace their signs if officials feel they don’t fit the look, feel, and tone of the community.
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