Please remember that it is illegal to place signs within the Virginia Department of Transportation’s right-of-way and that violations of this law can result in fines.

The VDOT right-of-way typically includes median strips, utility poles, street signs and the area between the road and ditch line.  Hanover County actively enforces this state law throughout the county, and violators can be assessed a $100 fine per illegal sign.

David Maloney, Director of Planning, said his office has received complaints about these signs over the years and has assessed a number of fines. 

“A majority of these illegally placed signs are constructed of inexpensive materials and remain within the public right-of-way and neglected,” Maloney added.  “They are very unsightly and become a form of litter.”

He added that signs within the public right-of-way present many nuisances and dangers to motorists.  “They become visual distractions to drivers and can block sight lines, especially at intersections and driveways,” Maloney said.

“The County’s goals are to keep our county beautiful and achieve compliance with this state law,” Maloney added.  “We do not have a goal of collecting fines, but we will do so where necessary to discourage businesses and individuals from posting illegal signs.”  In an effort to enforce the regulations, the zoning enforcement staff periodically performs sweeps of the County’s roads to remove illegally placed signs.  

Also remember that signs may be posted on private property only with the permission of the owner and in compliance with the County’s sign ordinance.  

Questions about the requirements of the County’s sign ordinance may be directed to the Planning Office at 365-6171.