Posted: | January 20, 2017 08:54 AM |
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From: | Representative Pam Snyder |
To: | All House members |
Subject: | Permit Fees for Outdoor Farmer’s Market Signs |
In the near future, I intend to reintroduce legislation that would allow outdoor signs that advertise farmer’s markets or roadside farm stands to be posted on state roadways that do not receive federal funding without the need for a PennDOT permit. These signs would also be exempt from the annual permit fee typically assessed by PennDOT. The department would still be allowed to set specifications regarding size, number and proximity of the signs in the right-of-ways. I became aware of a family-owned farm in my legislative district that was told by PennDOT to remove their signs advertising their farm stand from the state highway right-of-way. According to PennDOT regulations, a permit and an associated fee are needed to post an off-premises sign advertising a business. It is important that PennDOT ensures orderly and effective display of outdoor advertising and continues to protect Pennsylvania’s natural beauty along our interstate highways. It is equally valuable, however, that we support family farming, an important industry in Pennsylvania. My measure would allow advertising that would benefit both the farmer and other constituents seeking fresh produce while continuing PennDOT’s oversight. As this legislation would only affect non-federal aid highways in Pennsylvania, there should be no interference with interstate highways that receive federal highway funding. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important piece of legislation. |
Introduced as HB212