New Ordinance Prohibits Signage On Utility Poles In Holmdel

HOLMDEL, NJ - Following an "ongoing practice" of individuals attaching potentially distracting signs posted to high-volume traffic areas in the township, the Holmdel Township Committee approved an ordinance last month prohibiting signs attached to utility poles on or near public rights-of-way.

"Signs on utility poles could become a distraction to motorists, and the utility poles are owned and/or operated by the utility company," the township said in a statement.

As per the ordinance, no sign, object designed to attract the attention of a motor vehicle driver, or another object that could obstruct a driver’s view should be placed on any utility pole within 25 feet of any public right-of-way.

According to the ordinance introduced in February, signs and other objects should not be placed upon any of the following traffic islands:

• Holmdel Road and Crawfords Corner Road
• Holmdel Road and Roberts Road
• Crawfords Corner Road and Red Hill Road
• Hill Crest Road and Bethany Road
• Everett Road and American Way
• Middletown Road and Stillwell Road
• Middletown Road and East Main Street

"The Township finds that this affixing of signs to utility poles is injurious to the public health, safety, and welfare, specifically because such signs detract from the natural scenic beauty and aesthetic features of Holmdel’s roadways, and further present as a dangerous and unnecessary distraction to motorists," the ordinance reads.

You can read the ordinance here (page 57).

Violations of this ordinance may result in fines and the removal of any objects found in violation. Questions can be directed to the township code enforcement office at (732) 946-2820 ext. 1316.