Sign, sign, everywhere a sign; Dover crackdown begins June 24

Sign cleanups are conducted to remove signs placed without permission, such as those often found attached to roadside trees and utility poles, or on the ground along roadsides. (Courtesy photo)

DOVER - The City of Dover Department of Planning and Community Development will conduct a sign cleanup the week of June 24 to remove unpermitted signs placed on public property or within the public right-of-way.

Zoning Administrator Paul R. Crouser said temporary signs are permitted in Dover only in selected commercial zones and must meet dimensional and liability rules. With few exceptions, temporary signs not located on the owner's property, known as "off-premise" signs, are prohibited citywide.

Sign cleanups are conducted to remove signs placed without permission, such as those often found attached to roadside trees and utility poles, or on the ground along roadsides.

"These signs can cause a safety hazard for motorists and pedestrians or create a visual blight that is unsightly for residents and visitors," said Planning and Community Development Director Donna Benton.

Benton said another goal is to support organizations that have obtained permits for legal signage.

"Dover's sign regulations balance needs for identification and advertising with protecting the safety, welfare, and attractive city appearances," she said. "Removing illegal signs ensures those who've followed these regulations know their efforts to obtain permits are meaningful."

Owners should remove any unpermitted signs before the cleanup starts on June 24. Confiscated signs will be held for 30 days at Dover City Hall before being recycled or destroyed unless claimed by owners who pay reclamation fees covering labor and equipment costs. Repeat offenders may face prosecution and fines.

Dover began focused enforcement of the off-premise sign ban in 2010. Sign regulations are codified in Chapter 170-32 of the city's ordinances. RSA 664:17 guides political advertising placement.

For more information contact Paul R. Crouser, Zoning Administrator at 603-516-6008 or p.crouser@dover.nh.gov.