Could a city’s billboard ban set a trend?
Imagine a world where signage is banned, where billboards are ripped down by the police and those unfortunate sign-makers who put them up are thrown in gaol.
Tuesday, 02 Sep 2014 09:53 GMT
Billboard ban: central Sao Paulo has banned large outdoor adverts
It may seem fanciful but one city has set a trend which others may follow. In 2007 the local government in Sao Paulo, Brazil, placed a ban on billboards, and in particular illegal billboards which littered the city often blocking off the views of shanty town developments.
At the time Clear Channel attempted to overturn the law passed by the Brazilian councillors feeling it was illegal. But the bid failed and since then the ugly and unsightly signs have been removed. Signage is still prominent on businesses and stores but it is much toned down – far more so than in the average British city.
Billboards have had a history of being banned, with some city fathers taking a dim view of what they see as unsightly advertising”
However there’s a sudden change of scene when you drive out of the South American citadel where a different authority legislates. Suddenly the signs are back with billboards similar to those that line the M4 as it enters London at Chiswick on the elevated section.
Billboards have had a history of being banned, with some city fathers taking a dim view of what they see as unsightly advertising. The American states of Vermont, Maine, Hawaii and Alaska have all at some time banned them in various districts. Bergen in Norway has made a stand against them while other cities around the world are keeping an eye on Sao Paulo’s “Clean City” law which has a range of restrictions on signage and advertising outdoors. If the rules mean more tourists and a more positive image then it could start a trend.
If you have an interesting story or a view on this news, then please e-mail news@signlink.co.uk
Follow Harry on:
