Sign Regulation News

CSA's Legislative Objectives
One of the prime missions of our association is the active involvement and participation in the legislative process leading to ordinances and statutes that affect our industry and our customers. In pursuit of this goal, our Legislative Committee, along with association staff, is responsible for overseeing the changes taking place in local municipal sign codes by becoming involved throughout these sign code revision processes. Through this committee, we have a vehicle by which we can make some vital contributions to the various governing bodies at the local level.

All members must be willing to be the association's eyes and ears, and to act as a conduit of information that they may hear at City Hall of upcoming changes.

The CSA's Legislative Committee representatives typically meet with staff and any consultants at the outset and any subsequent meetings where development of the code takes place. Providing input during draft development is extremely important to the outcome of the final document.

Being present at public workshops and hearings before the Planning Commission and elected officials is an important element in the process of adoption of a new ordinance as this keeps the issues and consequences in front of the governing body for consideration.

Throughout the process of code rewrites, the association continually asks these three important questions: Is it fair to all concerned? Is it equitable? Is it enforceable? The association strives to ensure that the codes which we must operate under to provide the best service and products to our customers must meet these basic criteria.

With the support of a watchful and involved membership, the future of the industry should remain strong within the region.

Current Sign Regulation Activity
Much of the sign regulation activity in recent years has been handled by individual sign companies, local sign industry groups or the International Sign Association.

Colorado Springs news - The unified voice of the Colorado Sign Association gave us the credibility to convince the PPRBD not to embrace new restrictive and cumbersome regulations. Calling for more inspections on sign install methods and electrical requirements. We were able to demonstrate our professional approach and commitment to following building code standards; satisfying their need for our cooperation and compliance. "Illuminated Sign Permit Procedure"

The City of Aurora has recently adopted a new sign code. Click here to download the code.

“After a lengthy process with members of the sign industry and community stakeholders, the City of Fort Collins has adopted a new code regulating electronic message centers. Click here to download the code.”

New US DOT Regulation:
The United States Department of Transportation issued a new safety regulation that prohibits interstate commercial truck drivers from using hand-held cell phones while operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). The ban is effective January 3, 2012 and will affect sign industry truck drivers who travel across state lines. Drivers who violate these restrictions face federal civil penalties of up to $2,750 for each offense and companies that allow their drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving face a maximum penalty of $11,000. Enforcement of this provision could be triggered simply by your driver telling an officer that the company requires the driver to use the cell phone. I am told that officials will aggressively enforce this ban. It is legal for the driver to use an ear piece.