July 17, 2020 – Effective Monday, July 20, City of Midland Code Enforcement will begin removing all signage placed within a public street right-of-way regardless of content. In accordance with social distancing requirements amid the COVID-19 pandemic, contact will not be made with property owners prior to the removal of these signs.
Per Section 22-2(a) of the City’s Code of Ordinances:
“It shall be unlawful to print, paint, place, install or otherwise affix any sign, poster or advertisement upon the pavement or sidewalk, or in the outlawn or parkway area adjacent to any public street or right-of-way, or upon any post, tree or other object located on any public street or right-of-way in the city.”
Violations of the City’s sign ordinances may result in a warning or a civil infraction violation citation.
Property owners who have signs placed in a street right-of-way are encouraged to move them immediately. The street right-of-way, also called the outlawn, is generally the piece of ground located between the curb and the sidewalk. Residents and business owners are encouraged to verify street right-of-ways on the City’s online GIS map at www.cityofmidlandmi.gov/maps.
Regulations regarding sign placement are necessary for safety and aesthetic purposes. Signs can be attractive and helpful in advertising a business, sale, or event; however, if used improperly or if too large, they can be distracting to motorists and a potential danger to the public as well as an eyesore in our community.
For more information, contact the City Building Department at 989-837-3383 or review the City’s Code of Ordinances online at www.cityofmidlandmi.gov/ordinances.