The City of Paducah is reminding the public and businesses that signs are not to be placed in the right-of-way or on city property. Furthermore, signs are not to be attached to utility poles or traffic sign posts. Prohibited signs include political signs and signs advertising businesses, services, and opportunities. Improperly placed signs can pose safety hazards for motorists and for maintenance personnel.
“We understand that marketing is a key factor for a business and for getting the word out about a service,” said City Manager Daron Jordan. “However, there are appropriate locations to place a sign on private property. This message is to inform the public that illegally placed signs, especially in the right-of-way, will be removed due to the safety hazards that they pose.”
“There are several safety hazards associated with a sign attached to a utility pole or traffic sign post or placed in the right-of-way,” said Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention Greg Cherry. “These signs often impede sight distance for drivers by keeping drivers from seeing oncoming traffic at intersections. Plus, they can interfere with mowing, maintenance, and utility activities.”
Deputy Chief Cherry adds that there are two main points before placing a sign. First, the owner of the private property should provide permission for the placement of the sign. Second, the sign needs to be placed outside the right-of-way. Signs placed in the right-of-way are not permitted as outlined in Paducah Code of Ordinances 126-76(e)(4). For a general idea regarding the extent of a roadway’s right-of-way, the public can view various maps at Property Maps..
Once City personnel remove an illegally placed sign, it is stored for approximately two weeks at City Hall providing an opportunity for the sign’s owner to collect it. Call the Paducah Fire Prevention Division at 270-444-8522 to inquire about a collected sign.
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