Campaign signs are visible alongside streets all over Bella Vista.

Buddy Vernetti with the Architectural Control Committee said it's important to be aware and mindful of the rules for where signs may be placed in Bella Vista.

According to a fact sheet published by the city, signs during public elections do not require a permit but do require the property owner's permission. They may not be placed on utility poles, street signs or other permanent signs and cannot obstruct drivers' vision at intersections. They must be made from durable and weather-resistant material and cannot be placed in a public right-of-way.

Signs are allowed up to 60 days before a public election and must be removed within two days after the election date or any runoff public election date.

They may be a maximum of five square feet and a property may have one for each 20 feet of street frontage in residential districts. In nonresidential districts, the maximum area is 18 square feet.

Signs placed illegally within the right-of-way will be removed immediately, according to the fact sheet, and held for one week for owner retrieval. Violations of the sign ordinance may result in a fine of up to $1,000.

POA common property is not available for campaign sign use. Staff attorney Doug McCash said the POA's policy forbids the placing of political signs, posters or other campaign policy on any common property.

Vernetti said his office doesn't issue fines but does collect the signs and holds on to them in case anyone wants to pick them up. The signs can be expensive, he said, and he'd prefer not to toss them.

But enforcing these rules has added to his workload.

"It does take a considerable amount of time because, you know, we've got state, federal and local elections going on," he said.

Candidates give out their signs, he said, and people put them everywhere.

The best course of action for anyone who is unsure of where to place their signs is to ask, he said. Residents may call the ACC at 479-855-8080 or Community Development Services at 479-268-4980 with any questions.

General News on 10/10/2018