JMPD stops illegal attempt to mount billboard stand on Woodmead Drive
Upon investigation JMPD Transportation Unit discovered the contractor did not have the necessary permits, hence he was instructed to remove materials until proper authorization was secured.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Transportation Unit recently stopped a contractor in Woodmead for illegally attempting to mount a billboard stand.
Whilst conducting patrols in the Woodmead area on March 23, the JMPD Transportation Unit encountered the contractor attempting to illegally erect a billboard stand along Woodmead Drive, near the Woodmead Retail Park.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said, upon investigation it was determined that the contractor did not possess the necessary Wayleave authorization from Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA).
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As a result, the contractor was immediately instructed to cease all work and remove the materials until the required authorization from JRA was obtained.
“The unit emphasised to the contractor the importance of adhering to all regulations and obtaining the required permits before commencing any infrastructure work along public roads within the City of Johannesburg,” said Fihla. “This is crucial for ensuring the safety of all road users and maintaining compliance with municipal by-laws.”
Illegal outdoor advertising is the unauthorized display of advertisements in public spaces without the necessary permissions from the municipality, or in violation of local by-laws. This includes erecting unauthorized billboards, posters, or signs in public areas. Any advertising sign erected without the prior written approval of the city is considered illegal.
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“The cost of illegal advertising to the city in lost revenue can be significant. Unauthorized billboards erected in prime locations have resulted in millions in lost revenue due to non-compliance with municipal outdoor advertising by-laws,” added Fihla.
“We urge all individuals and businesses to follow the correct procedures and obtain the necessary approvals before undertaking any advertising or infrastructure work along public roads.”
To legally erect a billboard, or any signage along roads in Johannesburg, the following process must be followed:
- Obtain written approval from the City of Johannesburg. This involves submitting an application to the Outdoor Advertising Unit from the Department of Development Planning and providing all necessary documentation.
- Secure a Wayleave authorization from JRA. This permit grants permission to undertake work within the road reserve.
- Ensure the proposed signage complies with all relevant municipal by-laws and regulations. This includes aspects such as size, location, and content.
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Paying for advertising in public spaces is essential for several reasons:
- It contributes to the city’s revenue, which is used for the maintenance and development of public spaces.
- It helps regulate the use of public spaces and prevents the overcrowding of advertisements.
- It allows the city to enforce quality standards for advertisements, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the city.
- It ensures fair business practices for all advertisers.
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