Texas House Bill HB3483

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to county authority to prohibit off-premise signs on certain roads and standards for off-premise signs.

Impact

The legislation would affect the management of outdoor advertising by shifting some regulatory power from the state to the counties. It allows counties to designate certain roads where off-premise signs can be prohibited, thus enabling local authorities to address local preferences and concerns regarding visual clutter. This could lead to a significant reduction in the number of off-premise signs, particularly in scenic areas or near counties that prioritize maintaining a particular aesthetic along their roadways.

Summary

House Bill 3483 aims to grant counties the authority to prohibit off-premise signs along certain roadways while establishing specific standards for such signage. The bill introduces amendments to the Transportation Code, detailing the duties of the commission responsible for regulating outdoor advertising and stipulating particular criteria for signs, such as height limitations and restrictions on lighting. Through these measures, the legislation seeks to create a more organized and aesthetically pleasing transport environment in non-urban areas of Texas.

Contention

Notably, points of contention surrounding HB3483 may emerge from interests concerned with restrictions on advertising visibility. Businesses that rely on off-premise signs for marketing may oppose such prohibitive measures as they could limit their outreach to potential customers. Moreover, the defined restrictions on sign size and lighting may also spark debates among stakeholders seeking to balance commercial visibility with community standards for visual appeal. Thus, the bill faces potential pushback from business owners and advertisers, advocating for broader access to off-premise advertising.