TZANEEN – The Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) has started cracking down on unauthorised and illegal signage boards in town.

By-law violations found in the CBD

Inspections in the CBD conducted by the municipality’s outdoor advertising division within the Planning and Economic Development Department identified by-law violations, including billboards, advertising boards and directional signs erected without the required municipal approval.

Inspectors also found advertising structures encroaching on public servitudes, signs obstructing motorists’ visibility at intersections and along roads, and poorly maintained structures that pose potential safety risks.

According to the municipality, these violations compromise road safety, detract from the town’s appearance, and create hazards for residents and visitors.

30 days to rectify or face action

Property owners and advertisers found in contravention of the by-laws have been issued compliance notices and given 30 days to rectify the infringements. Failure to comply may result in legal action, including removal of the structures at the owner’s expense.

The municipality has urged owners wishing to regularise their advertising structures to engage with the GTM outdoor advertising section as soon as possible.

What the by-laws require

Under the municipality’s outdoor advertising and signage by-laws, no person may erect or display an advertising sign, billboard or hoarding without written approval, except where exempt under the legislation.

Applications must include the prescribed fee, locality and site plans, detailed drawings, and any additional information required for assessment.

When evaluating applications, the municipality considers whether a proposed sign could endanger people or property, obstruct visibility or road traffic signs, negatively affect the surrounding environment, or display indecent material.

The by-laws also prohibit certain roof-mounted signs, unauthorised banners and posters, and signage that interferes with traffic safety or an area’s architectural character.

Owners responsible for maintenance

Sign owners are responsible for ensuring structures remain structurally sound and properly maintained. Officials may inspect properties, withdraw approvals, order repairs or removal of unsafe structures, and recover costs from owners.

Signs posing immediate danger, or erected unlawfully on municipal property, may be removed without prior notice.

GTM said the enforcement campaign forms part of its broader commitment to regulatory compliance, public safety and preserving Greater Tzaneen’s visual character.

Penalties for non-compliance

Anyone convicted of contravening the by-laws may face a fine or up to 12 months’ imprisonment.

Anyone with a signage notice can contact Moloko Racheku at 015 307 8195 or 015 307 8189.