Installation of Non-Traffic Information Devices Near Roads: Rules and Legal Requirements
The installation of advertising structures, signs, and other information devices near roads is regulated by law. First and foremost, these rules aim to ensure road safety. In addition, they help prevent situations where advertising may distract drivers or obscure traffic signs.
Therefore, before installing any advertising or informational structure near a road, it is important to understand the applicable legal requirements.
What is a non-traffic information device
A non-traffic information device refers to any structure located near a road that is not part of traffic management or traffic control systems.
For example, these may include:
- advertising billboards
- company signs
- information boards
- directional signs to private properties
- advertising banners and similar promotional structures
Thus, such structures are subject to specific placement rules.
Is a permit required for installation
If an information device is planned to be installed within a road protection zone, the owner must first obtain permission from the road owner.
To apply for permission, the applicant must submit:
- a sketch of the information device
- a layout plan showing its location
Furthermore, installing such a structure without permission is considered illegal. Therefore, the approval process must be completed before installation begins.
Requirements for placing information devices
The law sets several requirements that owners must follow when placing information devices near roads.
In particular, the structure must not:
- mislead road users
- obscure traffic signs or other traffic control devices
- make traffic signs difficult to recognize
- blind drivers with lighting or reflections
- distract road users from driving
- limit visibility at intersections
Consequently, information devices must always be installed in a way that does not compromise road safety.
Prohibited information structures
The law also prohibits placing structures that resemble traffic signs in shape, color, or design.
This rule applies both on the road itself and within the road protection zone. Its primary purpose is to prevent situations where drivers might confuse advertising with official traffic signs.
Advertising on roads that are part of the European road network
If a road is part of the European road network, additional requirements apply.
In such cases, information devices may only be installed parallel to the axis of the road. This requirement helps reduce visual distraction for drivers and improves overall traffic safety.
Requirements for placement near highways
The law also establishes a minimum distance between the information device and the roadway.
When installing an information device within the protection zone of a highway, the distance from the nearest edge of the device to the edge of the roadway must be at least 12 meters.
Who pays for installation and maintenance
The owner of the information device is responsible for all associated costs.
This includes:
- installation
- maintenance
- repair
- removal or dismantling
Therefore, the owner bears full responsibility for the operation and upkeep of the structure.
Liability for violations
If an information device is installed without the required permission, the road owner or the owner of the protection zone area may demand its immediate removal.
If the owner fails to comply, the road owner has the right to remove the structure. However, all removal costs must be paid by the owner of the information device.
Additionally, if an improperly installed structure causes damage to road users, the owner of the information device must compensate for the damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, installing advertising or informational structures near roads requires compliance with clear legal rules. First, it is necessary to obtain the appropriate permit. Second, the installation location must meet legal distance requirements and safety standards.
Following these rules helps avoid fines, forced removal of structures, and potential liability for damages.