An Act Concerning Applications To Erect Outdoor Advertising Structures And The Fees For The Erection And Maintenance Of Such Structures.
The impact of HB 05165 on state laws will be significant as it repeals and substitutes previous statutes regulating outdoor advertising. By adjusting the fee structure, the bill emphasizes compliance and operational readiness within a specified timeframe. Specifically, the bill requires that any structure for which a permit is granted must be completed and operational within six months; failure to do so will result in permit cancellation. These provisions are intended to streamline the permit process while ensuring that outdoor advertising structures are quickly established and operational.
House Bill 05165 aims to amend the existing regulations surrounding the application process for outdoor advertising structures. The bill seeks to clarify the requirements for obtaining permits and to adjust the associated fees. It mandates that no person, firm, or corporation may erect or maintain outdoor advertising without first securing a permit from the Commissioner of Transportation. The proposed legislation introduces a more structured fee schedule for the issuance and annual maintenance of these permits, requiring applicants to pay upfront and then annually thereafter based on the size of the advertising space.
Notably, the updates proposed in this bill could lead to increased costs for advertising firms and others involved in erecting outdoor displays. The increment in fees, particularly for larger advertising spaces, may be viewed as a financial burden by businesses that rely on such advertising. Additionally, there could be discussions regarding the potential implications for local economies dependent on outdoor advertising revenues. Entities opposed to the bill may argue that the increased fees and stringent timelines could hinder smaller businesses or startups from being able to participate in the outdoor advertising market.