Signs, signs, not everywhere a sign

Residents can have their say in June on Council’s proposed new local law being introduced to govern advertising signage which will replace the current regulation under the planning scheme.

All real estate signs pointing to open houses, all A-frame and teardrop signs will be banned under the proposed law.

Council’s Environment and Sustainable Development Director Kim Rawlings said the local law retains the status quo on the amount of signage allowed.

“This sets Noosa apart from other places, maintaining a total signage area of up to 10sqm per business in commercial and industrial areas, with a size limit of 4sqm per individual sign,” she said.

The proposed local law makes changes to the current Noosa plan “to reduce visual clutter and maintain the high levels of amenity in Noosa Shire”.Ms Rawlings said managing the proliferation of these signs represented one of the biggest challenges for staff.

“Not only do they tend to clutter footpaths and impede their use, often the current limitations are ignored with multiple A-frame signs being placed in front of their premises, and generally on public land,” she said.

“There are also public liability issues associated with these devices.

“The proposed changes are not set in stone – we are seeking feedback from business and the community before anything is finalised, to gauge their views.”

She said a recent signage audit showed more than 80 per cent of businesses had signage that complied with the rules, and that most non-compliance was around A-frames and teardrop signs.

Residents can review the draft local law and comments online at yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au when it is placed on public notification in June.