Livermore Bans Onstreet Open House Signs Starting This Month
Starting this month, the city of East Bay Livermore banned some open house signs as part of a broader ban on all temporary signs on public streets and sidewalks.
The original intent of the act was to remove much of the political flag in the Alameda County city, according to the San Jose Mercury News. But in an effort to sidestep potential First Amendment challenges, the ban is coded as "neutral content." This means that everything from garage sale signs to commercial advertising is prohibited on public roads, although signs on private property, such as front yards, are still allowed. The sidewalks in the city center are also being cleaned.
Despite the widespread use of maps and GPS, local property industry representatives said the ban would make it more difficult for buyers to find the limited number of properties in the area.
"Believe it or not, even with high-tech maps and navigation systems available to homebuyers, there are still many homebuyers who use open house alerts to find homes for sale," said David Stark, a spokesman. Bay East Association of Realtors, told the Mercury News. "Especially in today's market, where there is little stock and few options."
Former Mayor Bob Werner introduced the law to the City Council in November, when he argued that many signs of a political campaign led some in the community to view it as vandalism or vandalism. At the time, he said the City Council could amend the outright ban before it begins July 1.
Weeks before the effective date, the council heard a proposal that included input from the residential community that city staff would approve temporary signs Thursday through Monday, so open house signs would still be allowed on weekends. week while the sale was taking place. events occur frequently.
The city has yet to move forward with a staffing proposal, which means city staff can now remove temporary signs that violate regulations. Outreach events will also be held throughout the city to inform residents of the new law before notices and citations begin.
-Emily Landas
