Businesses in Renfrewshire will soon have to fork out £100 if “unsightly” illegal signage is traced back to them.
The council already removes signs which have been placed on its roads network without the relevant permission.
But from the beginning of April it will charge those responsible in a bid to clamp down on the behaviour.
The policy move was given the green light at last month’s infrastructure, land and environment policy board.
Elected members have reminded culprits that the change will kick in shortly – urging them to “get your stuff removed”.
Councillor Stephen Burns, the SNP’s depute board convener, said: “It’s a welcome move because a lot of complaints are made about illegal signage.
“There have been people with prams or those with visual impairments, who have struggled to get by on a path because signs are blocking them.
“It’s also a distraction for drivers if it’s in their line of sight.
“We want people to know that this is coming, so get your stuff removed.”
Where the sign advertises a business, it will be assumed the owner is accountable for it being in place and they will be liable to pay the fee.
The £100 charge is reflective of the typical cost incurred by the council to investigate, remove and dispose of the signage.
Councillor Chris Gilmour, Labour group environment spokesperson, added: “It’s a good step because illegal signage can be a distraction to drivers and, quite frankly, if it’s left there for some time it can become unsightly.
“It’s also a hazard to people who are disabled, those who are partially sighted and buggy users.
“It should be removed and we should try to reinforce the fact that it can be a danger to pedestrians.”
He also hoped it would “deter” businesses from putting up signs in public places without permission.
Councillor Gilmour added: “It’s almost an impossible task, but I think if we start enforcing it, people will think twice before doing it and instead get permission to put signs up.
“I’m not trying to stop businesses advertising, but they need to think about other people using the roads and footways in the area.”
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