Bill > HB2141

This bill amends Virginia Code § 33.2-1224 to increase the civil penalty for placing unauthorized signs or advertisements within highway limits from $100 to $250, with a nuanced penalty structure. Specifically, the bill maintains a $100 penalty for signs placed within 100 yards of an identical sign that already incurred the $250 penalty. The legislation clarifies that signs placed within highway limits are considered a public nuisance and can be removed by the Commissioner of Highways without notice. Additionally, the bill allows the Commissioner to collect removal costs and civil penalties from the responsible party, with a presumption that the advertised entity is responsible if no one is directly observed placing the sign. The bill also enables the Commissioner to enter agreements with local government agencies to help enforce these regulations and collect penalties, and explicitly states that these provisions do not apply to signs already regulated under other chapters of the law. The goal appears to be discouraging unauthorized signage along highways and providing clear mechanisms for removal and penalty collection.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2141