Sign Code: ‘Signs, signs, everywhere a yard sign …’

Hood River Police Department has received a number of recent complaints concerning yard and garage sale signs posted on utility poles and trees. When displayed incorrectly, or left in place after the sale has come and gone, these signs are eyesores and amount to being litter – often bright neon litter.

The City of Hood River and the Code Enforcement branch of the City Police Department are requesting that signs not be posted throughout the city advertising yard, garage, estate or other sales.

To quote Municipal Code 18.02.120 Prohibited Signs, paragraph 2 and 3:

“2. Portable Signs: Portable or bench signs, excluding sandwich boards located on private property, are prohibited.

“3. Pole and Tree Signs: Signs placed on, painted on, or affixed to any utility pole or tree, are prohibited.”

This applies to yard, garage and other sale signs placed within the city limits.

Municipal Code 18.02.160 Penalties, states:

“You could face up to $250 when you add up the fine, and any costs, assessments, or restitution the court may impose.”

The thing about this issue is it is so easily avoided: post your sign on a freestanding stick or on a weighted cardboard box, and then add “remove signs” to your checklist after the sale.

Election Filing: Monday’s the final day

Thinking of running for office?

(Thinking of the above, just don’t tack your campaign sign to a power pole!)

The deadline to file for municipal and judicial offices is Aug. 25. Go to your City Hall for filing details, or, if you are inclined to file for Circuit Court Judge, consult the Secretary of State website.

There’s a fee and/or a limited number of signatures of support required to file, so go in early Monday morning to learn more. It’s your last opportunity, for the November election, to throw your hat into the ring.

Unless it’s on a write-in basis later in the year, which is always an option, if done right; it doesn’t have to be Mickey Mouse.