Businesses that are running afoul of Greenwood’s new sign ordinance are getting until the beginning of the new year to come into compliance.
“I gave them some extra time. It really isn’t going into effect until Jan. 1,” said Greenwood Mayor Carolyn McAdams.
The sign ordinance, which bans the use of temporary commercial signs, such as freestanding banners and trailers with flashing lights, was approved Nov. 5 by the City Council.
The version was the eighth sign proposal over the past three years.
Although the ordinance technically takes effect 30 days after signing, McAdams said she decided to delay implementation of the law so that businesses could come into compliance.
She said the city has already identified establishments that are still openly violating the law, particularly along U.S. 82.
The Commonwealth found several vinyl banners along the busy corridor Tuesday, including some that appeared to have been recently placed.
Letters informing the business owners of the law’s requirements have been already prepared, McAdams said.
“The letters might have gone out Monday,” she said. “No one is going to get a reprimand until the first of the year.”
If the letters fail to have the desired impact, Betty Stigler, the city’s code enforcement officer, will visit each business that is in violation, McAdams said.
The ordinance also bans promotional flags and limits commercial banners to two per business. Banners must be placed on the side of the building.
Business owners who fail to comply with the law risk a $500 fine and up to 90 days in jail.
