Posted: | September 1, 2015 10:34 AM |
---|---|
From: | Representative Pam Snyder |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | PennDOT Permit Fees for Outdoor Signage |
In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation to allow signs that advertise local farmer’s markets and farm stands to be exempt from PennDOT’s fee requirements along state routes without federal funding. PennDOT would still be allowed to set specifications regarding size, number, and proximity in the right-of-way areas, for these signs. As this legislation would only affect non-federal aid highways in Pennsylvania, there should be no interference with interstate highways that receive federal highway funding. Recently, I became aware of a family-owned farm in my legislative district that was told by PennDOT to remove their signs advertising their farm stand from the state highway right-of-way. According to PennDOT regulations, a permit (and an associated fee) is needed in order to have an off-premises sign advertising a business. It is important that PennDOT ensures orderly and effective display of outdoor advertising and continues to protect Pennsylvania’s natural beauty along our interstate highways. It is equally valuable that family farming, as an important industry in Pennsylvania, should be supported. . My measure would allow advertising that would benefit both the farmer and other constituents seeking fresh produce while continuing PennDOT’s oversight. I hope you will join me in sponsoring this important piece of legislation. |
Introduced as HB1561