The Ngwathe Local Municipality will start removing illegal billboards in Parys on Friday October 2.

This follows a campaign launched in 2025 to remove illegal outdoor advertising structures throughout all towns under its jurisdiction, including Parys, Koppies, Vredefort, Edenville and Heilbron.

The municipality in July 2025 issued formal notices to individuals and businesses responsible for erecting unauthorised billboards. Some businesses then came forward and complied. However owners of billboards who ignored the notices were given 12 months to get their houses in order. 

In Parys alone, officials identified and recorded approximately 200 illegal advertising structures.

According to the municipality, many of these billboards have been erected without the necessary permission or payment of applicable fees, in violation of municipal by-laws and revenue collection processes.

The municipality again urged all businesses to adhere to proper procedures when applying for outdoor advertising space.

Business owners are reminded that all billboards must comply with the municipality’s specifications regarding size, placement and safety, particularly those located along streets and sidewalks. Improper installations can damage infrastructure or obstruct road traffic, posing risks to both motorists and pedestrians.

Billboards erected without authorisation will be removed after the issuing of notices, and fines will be charged to contraveners. The campaign forms part of broader efforts to improve and ensure fair contribution to municipal revenue streams.