Community calls out street advertising
Officials are calling out illegal street advertising, and advising that there are other, better, ways of advertising your business.
Businesses advertise their products or services, whether through newspapers, billboards, or even flyers. In the City of Johannesburg (CoJ), we are seeing a new form of illegal advertising, on the very same infrastructure that directs us on the road.
Read more: JMPD warns of fake advertisments and job offers on social media
Fairland Community Police Forum (CPF) treasurer Bhaai Cassim confirmed that there is a rise in illegal advertising signs, some of which make traffic dangerous. “Advertising boards on traffic light poles and on stop signs are illegal. Another nuisance is the paper flyers being stuck on driveway gates advertising services such as tree felling, television installations, etc.”
Cassim suggested that the community should take action against those companies, and individuals, who have no concern for their suburb, other than their business interests.
Station Commander Shaid Abdool, of Linden SAPS, stated that advertisements on traffic light poles cause distractions, and also give a very poor reflection of neighbourhoods and streets in the area, however, Abdool added that he does sympathise with people trying to earn a living. He suggests other avenues to try and market their services. “You can advertise the same services in pamphlets and classified sections in newspapers, which are reasonably rated. I do understand, but there are relevant and adequate platforms in our communities that do exists, that they can go to and advertise.”
Also read: Illegal advertising – an eyesore or something more sinister?
Johannesburg Property Company’s (JPC) Lucky Sindane agreed that businesses should explore other avenues of advertising, not on traffic lights. He did state, however, that the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) needs to enforce by-laws.
“The CoJ and the JMPD are committed to maintaining the integrity of our urban environment, and we take illegal advertising very seriously,” stated JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla.
He emphasised the importance of adhering to the outdoor advertising by-laws, which require that no advertising sign may be erected or used without prior written approval from the city, unless exempt. “It is crucial for the owners of advertising signs to ensure that their signage complies with these regulations to avoid penalties.”
The Outdoor Advertising Steering Committee (OASC) plays a crucial role in evaluating applications and addressing disputes related to non-compliance. “Our committee is tasked with making recommendations, which can include the removal of non-compliant signs or the imposition of fines,” Fihla explained. “Signs placed on traffic light poles, without the necessary approval, are a clear violation of section 3(1) of the by-law, and we will take appropriate action to enforce compliance.”
The JMPD urges all advertisers to familiarise themselves with the regulations to contribute to a safer and more orderly city.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
Related article: Illegal advertising
