POSTERS advertising services such as tree felling and road tarring on lamp posts, traffic lights and stop signs have become commonplace in residential areas in the metro.
This practice, however, is unlawful and perpetrators could be slapped with hefty fines.
According to the municipal bylaw Schedule 16, such posters may not be erected on road traffic signs, signals, and lampposts.
Ward 8 Councillor Gustav Rautenbach says the practice of erecting posters is getting out of control and many people may not realise that it is illegal to do so.
“This problem is not unique to Ward 8.
“This is being done all over the metro. Not only is this illegal, but it also puts road users in danger by way of distraction.
“Plus, it makes the area appear untidy,” Rautenbach said.
Persons committing the offence may receive a fine of up to R1000.
What the bylaw states regarding positioning of signs:
1) A poster may not be displayed on an electric light standard or any other structure which is provided for the express purpose of pasting or affixing posters and notices.
2) A sign may not be erected on a power line standard, a road traffic sign or signal, a wall, a column, a poster of a veranda or balcony, an electricity box, a tree or bridge.
3) A sign may not cover any municipal markings or painted stripes on a lamppost.
4) A sign may not be displayed on a road which carries a speed limit in excess of 80km/h.
5) A structure provided for the express purpose of pasting or affixing posters and notices may only be erected in pedestrian environments and may not be aimed at motorised traffic.
Provision is made for election posters, newspaper posters, municipal and charitable posters and these have their own set of rules and criteria to adhere to.
