The Department of Public Works started removing unauthorized signs alongside county roadways on April 1, 2024. This initiative aims to clear unpermitted signs that obstruct motorists' views at intersections and contribute to roadway clutter.
The removed signs are being stored at the Appeal Landfill, located at 401 Sweetwater Road. Individuals and businesses have the opportunity to reclaim their signs within two weeks for a fee of $6 per sign. Signs not retrieved within this period will be discarded.
Those who repeatedly violate the signage permit regulations will face a $25 fine per sign, regardless of whether the signs are reclaimed. This fine will be issued as a civil citation from the County Attorney's Office.
The Board of County Commissioners emphasizes the importance of complying with the sign regulations as outlined in the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance. These regulations are available for review at https://ecode360.com/29293346Z. The Commissioners urge all residents to follow these guidelines to maintain the aesthetics and safety of county roadways.
For residents and businesses needing sign permits, the county has provided resources to facilitate the legal and safe placement of signs. Detailed information on the necessary permits for various types of work can be found on the county's "Do I Need a Permit?" page.
"We appreciate the community's support and cooperation as we work to ensure pleasing aesthetics, safer roadways, and intersections free of obstructions," the Board of County Commissioners stated.
The crackdown on unpermitted signs is part of a broader effort to enhance road safety and maintain a visually appealing environment. Unauthorized signs not only pose a risk by obstructing views but also contribute to a disorganized and cluttered roadside appearance. By enforcing these regulations, the county aims to promote safer and more attractive public spaces.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance to avoid penalties and ensure their signage complies with local laws. The ordinance provides comprehensive guidelines on what constitutes permissible signage and the process for obtaining the necessary permits.
This recent action by the Department of Public Works reflects the county's commitment to upholding these standards and addressing any violations promptly. The storage and reclamation process at the Appeal Landfill provides a window for sign owners to retrieve their property while reinforcing the need for proper permits.
The enforcement measures, including fines for repeat offenders, are designed to deter non-compliance and promote adherence to the established regulations. The county remains dedicated to working with the community to maintain the balance between individual expression through signage and the collective need for safe and orderly roadways.
As this initiative progresses, the county will continue to monitor compliance and take necessary actions to ensure that the regulations are upheld. The cooperation of residents and businesses is crucial in achieving the goals of this campaign and maintaining the quality of the county's public spaces.
For further information on sign permits and the zoning ordinance, residents can visit the official county website or contact the Department of Public Works directly. The county remains open to feedback and inquiries from the public as it navigates the complexities of maintaining a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment.
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