HB 3611 is a new state law that creates harsher penalties for illegally placed signs along public roads.
AUSTIN, Texas — House Bill 3611 is set to take effect on September 1. It’s a new law in Texas that amends the transportation code to create harsher penalties for illegally placed signs along public roads.
According to the bill, the person who commissioned a sign, or whose advertisement is on a sign, that is not authorized will be given written notice that they may face fines if they don’t remove it within a set period of time.
For first-time offenders, the fines max out at $1,000. On a second violation, a fine of up to $2,500 will be assessed. For a third offense or more, fines can be up to $5,000.
“Illegal signage can negatively impact the quality of life in neighborhoods throughout Texas,” the bill’s authors and sponsor wrote about its intent. “Although there have been efforts to target ‘bandit signs,’ offending operators simply claim they did not place the signs or just pay associated fines as a cost of doing business. There have been calls for stricter enforcement to address this ongoing issue.”
The bill’s sponsor in the Senate, Sen. Borris Miles, said he worked with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to get the legislation passed.
“These signs are a blight in minority communities, and some even promote scams,” he said.
The House approved the bill in a 112-23 vote on April 30. The Senate subsequently passed the bill on May 19 in a 26-5 vote. Gov. Greg Abbott signed the bill into law on May 29.
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