Hanover County Is Enforcing Laws Against Illegal Signs

March 26, 2009

The Following Are All Examples Of Illegal Signs

It is illegal to place signs within the Virginia Department of Transportation’s right-of-way without their permission. Areas or places in which signs cannot be placed include:

• Within median strips
• On utility poles
• On street signs
• Any area between the road and ditch line.

Hanover County is now actively enforcing these laws. Recently, a national homebuilder was cited for posting signs within the right-of-way on Lee Davis and Pole Green Roads and paid $1,100 in fines.

“For several years now we have done everything possible to achieve voluntary compliance with state law”, said County Planning Director Michael Crescenzo. “Now, where necessary, we will pursue civil penalties and costs, with the assistance of the County Attorney’s Office.”

“The County’s goal is to achieve compliance with this state law,” Assistant County Attorney Lisa Seward said. “We do not have a goal of collecting fines, but we will do so where necessary to discourage businesses and individuals from posting illegal signs.”

Signs may be posted only on private property with the permission of the owner and in compliance with the County’s sign ordinance.  Questions about the requirements of the County’s sign ordinance may be directed to the Planning Office at 804-365-6171.

Also remember that banners of any kind require a temporary sign permit. A temporary sign permit, good for up to 60 days within a calendar year, can be obtained from the Planning Office. In addition to the County temporary sign permit, any banner placed along State-maintained highways also must be approved by VDOT.