September 20, 2004
No Posting Signs on City Poles!

Think twice before posting a sign on a nearby telephone pole. You could be fined up to $200.

According to city ordinance, it’s unlawful to post, fasten, erect, display or locate any sign on any structure, tree, pole, curb, or elsewhere within rights of way on any public street or on private property.

That means “Lose 10 Pounds in Two Weeks” signs as well as garage sale, house cleaning, lost pet and lawn care signs are illegal anywhere. Garage sale signs can be posted for three consecutive days in the front yard of the person conducting the sale — one sign per yard, though.

Political and homebuilder directional signs are allowed with certain restrictions. The State of Texas regulates political signs during an election campaign. These signs may not interfere with traffic entering and/or exiting the property and are placed 10 feet from the curb. Homebuilder directional signs are allowed on authorized property from Friday afternoon to noon Monday.

In addition, the city prohibits advertisements from being placed on residential doors or vehicles without the owner’s permission. Solicitors can knock on the door and give the handbills to the owners. For complaints on illegal sign posting, contact the Development Department’s customer service section at 817-392-2222 or send an e-mail to DevCustomerService@fortworthgov.org.