Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Transportation Committee

SSB 6208

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Summary of Substitute Bill

Permits temporary agricultural directional signs to be erected on a state highway right-of-way.
Requires requests for permission to place signs within a state highway right-of-way to be approved within five days, so long as the sign does not create a safety concern.

Background:

The Highway Advertising Control Act -- Scenic Vistas Act prohibits most signs from being visible from interstate, primary, or scenic highway systems. One of the exceptions to this prohibition are temporary agricultural directional signs. These signs provide directions for drivers to locate businesses that sell seasonal agricultural products. These temporary agricultural directional signs may be posted on private property adjacent to a state highway right-of-way. They may be posted only during the period of time that the agricultural product is being sold and must advertise products being sold within 15 miles of the highway. These signs are not permitted within an incorporated city or town. Posting of these signs are regulated by a permitting system established by the Washington State Department of Transportation.

Summary of Bill:

The places where temporary agricultural directional signs are permitted are expanded to include a state highway right-of-way. Requests to place a temporary agricultural directional sign must be approved within five days of application, provided the sign does not create a safety concern.