Several municipalities recently sponsored community cleanup events to remove litter from local roads. Participation was impressive, indicating intolerance for the tons of cans, bottles and trash that despoil the environment.
A form of litter that is equally objectionable and so prevalent that it may not be recognized as litter is bright roadside signs promoting organizations and events. Traditionally used by local candidates prior to elections and (usually) removed promptly after votes are counted, these rectangular signs supported by metal frames.
All these signs are litter and ruin the appearance of roadsides precisely the way cans, bottles and other forms of litter do. They are pervasive and frequently abandoned for weeks or months. They also possess another offensive characteristic – they are all outdoor advertising (any form of paid, non-personal communication about an organization, product, service or idea by an identified sponsor).
Municipal sign ordinances apply to all signs, regardless of the organization’s mission, but are apparently largely ignored by advertisers using this medium. The regulations generally require, among other provisions, obtaining property owners’ permission prior to placement and control the time allowed before the signs must be removed (by the sponsoring organization), along with the number of signs at any location.
I hope this letter will create awareness among those of us who suffer this blight and among the sponsors who impose it upon us to promote civic organizations, community events, yard sales, craft groups, employment opportunities or other messages. Please complain to whatever town office responsible for enforcing sign ordinances in your town and inform local sponsors of your objections.
Classified advertising, free newspaper community announcements, email and internet bulletin boards are unobtrusive, low-cost or free forms of advertising.
Litter is litter regardless of the name used to describe it.
Ruth Smith
Wilton