Have You Been Charged with Prohibited Placement of Posters, Signs, and Advertisements in Georgia?
When driving down the road or going into stores, we are bombarded with posters, signs, and advertisements. Many people are unaware that it is illegal to put up a poster or sign without permission from the owner. Even though it is charged as a misdemeanor, it is in your best interest to hire an experienced criminal lawyer. We will make sure your rights and your future are protected. Call now for a free case evaluation.
Georgia Law on Prohibited Placement of Posters, Signs, and Advertisements
O.C.G.A. § 16-7-58
It shall be unlawful for any person to place posters, signs, or advertisements:
(1) On any public property or building, unless the owner thereof or the occupier as authorized by such owner has given permission to place such posters, signs, or advertisements on such property; provided, however, that signs within the rights of way of public roads shall be governed by Code Section 32-6-51;
(2) On any private property unless the owner thereof or the occupier as authorized by such owner has given permission to place such posters, signs, or advertisements on such property; and, provided, further that no municipal, county, or consolidated government may restrict by regulation or other means the length of time a political campaign sign may be displayed or the number of signs which may be displayed on private property for which permission has been granted; or
(3) On any property zoned for commercial or industrial uses if the placement of such posters, signs, or advertisements conflicts with any zoning laws or ordinances.
The Penalty for Prohibited Placement of Posters, Signs, and Advertisements in Georgia
A person convicted of placing a poster, sign, or advertisement in a prohibited place in Georgia will be charged with a misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is up to one year in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both.
However, each poster, sign, or advertisement place will constitute a separate offense. Therefore, if the same poster was put up in 5 prohibited spots, then the accused will be charged with 5 counts of violating O.C.G.A. § 16-7-58.
Georgia Defenses to Prohibited Placement of Posters, Signs, and Advertisements
Consent from the owner: If the owner consented to the poster, sign, or advertisement being placed on their property, whether it was public or private, then no crime has occurred. However, evidence that the owner did authorize it will be needed to support this defense.
The poster, sign, or ad does not conflict with any zoning laws: If the property is zoned for commercial or industrial use and the poster does not conflict with any local ordinances, then it is legal to place something there.
Innocence: An alibi or other evidence that you could not have committed the alleged crime will be critical when defending your case.
These are just some of the numerous defenses that could be applied to your case. Every case is different, and there are plenty more arguments we can make on your behalf. Call now, and we will start preparing your best defense!
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been charged with prohibited placement of posters, signs, and advertisements in Georgia, contact us now. We will immediately start preparing your defense. We promise to walk you through every step of the criminal process and update you of your options as we go. We care about your future and ensure your rights will be protected. Remember, a charge is not the same as a conviction. Contact us today.
