Typically in this article, I talk about crime related themes, or crime prevention. Believe it or not, there IS a method to my madness. This week, however, I want to touch on something that is becoming more of a nuisance — and it IS illegal, placing signs on the rights-of-way or on poles.

The City of Bartow’s code enforcement officers handle complaints from the public about this type of crime. Yes, speaking specifically, it could be a crime under our ordinances. If these signs are placed on utility poles, city signs, streets or rights-of-way, not only is it in violation of the City of Bartow’s land development restrictions, it is considered as littering. There are limitations on when and where signs can be placed in the City of Bartow.