LIHUE — The county Department of Public Works is reminding the public that the county’s sign ordinance has specific rules relating to specifications, permitting, sizes and placement of signs on the island.
It also has provisions for enforcement.
Signs that are prohibited include roof signs, portable signs, and special banners or pennants displayed longer than 10 days prior or one day following an event. Additionally, feather banners or wind signs — which obtain their movement from the wind — are prohibited.
The sign ordinance helps reduce visual clutter, allows fair advertising, and promotes safety for everyone, said Deputy County Engineer Lyle Tabata.
When signs are not in compliance, the department will issue a notice and compliance, and removal must take place within five working days.
Failure to comply may result in a fine of up to $50 per day for every day of the ordinance violation, pursuant to the ordinance.
There were no fines issued last year for sign-ordinance violations, the county said.
Signs that need permits include directional signs, signs in business and industrial districts, banners, or pennants and ground signs.
Nonprofit organizations are exempt from sign-permit requirements for banners. However, the organization’s notice of banner posting must be submitted to the Building Division prior to erecting the banner.
To report apparent violations of the sign ordinance, call the Building Division at 241-4854.
