City to remove unauthorized temporary signs starting June 24

posted on 6/14/2024

The City of Dover Department of Planning and Community Development will conduct a clean-up to remove unpermitted signs placed on public property or within the public right-of-way during the week of June 24.

Zoning Administrator Paul R. Crouser said temporary signs are permitted in Dover only in selected commercial zones and must meet dimensional and liability rules. With few exceptions, temporary signs not located on the owner's property, known as "off-premise" signs, are prohibited citywide.

Sign clean-ups occur regularly to remove unpermitted signs placed without permission, such as those often found attached to roadside trees and utility poles, or on the ground along roadsides.

"These signs can cause a safety hazard for motorists and pedestrians or create a visual blight that is unsightly for residents and visitors," said Planning and Community Development Director Donna Benton.

Benton said another goal is to support organizations that have obtained permits for legal signage. 

"Dover's sign regulations balance needs for identification and advertising with protecting the safety, welfare, and attractive city appearances," she said. "Removing illegal signs ensures those who've followed these regulations know their efforts to obtain permits are meaningful."

Owners should remove any unpermitted signs before the clean-up starting June 24. Confiscated signs will be held for 30 days at City Hall before being recycled or destroyed unless claimed by owners who pay reclamation fees to cover labor and equipment costs. Repeat offenders may face prosecution and fines.

Dover began focused enforcement of the off-premise sign ban in 2010. Sign regulations are in the zoning ordinance, Chapter 170-32 of the city code, or on the city's website. State law RSA 664:17 guides political advertising placement.

For more information, contact Crouser at 603-516-6008 or p.crouser@dover.nh.gov.