Feedback sought as officials target signage laws

Committee chairwoman Merepeka Raukawa-Tait

Changes to the district's signage rules could see the establishment of about six designated spots for temporary community signs and more relaxed rules for advertising events.

Rotorua Lakes Council's Strategy, Policy and Finance committee has voted to go ahead with public consultation on proposed changes to the Signs on Roads Bylaw.

In her report to councillors, the council's strategy manager, Aimee McGregor, said changes would allow people to erect temporary directional signage one day before and for the duration of an event.

The bylaw only allows people to erect signage for five days while an event was on.

"The second change will allow for advertising on road reserve for an event that is coming. We would like the ability to choose some set locations around the district where it is appropriate to be advertising community-type events," she said during the committee's recent meeting.

"Signs on private property are not controlled by this bylaw, this is covered by the district plan," she said.

It is not known at this stage where the six sites could be located. The proposed changes do not affect temporary real estate signage or commercial signage.

Committee chairwoman Merepeka Raukawa-Tait said the changes did not affect controversial yellow and black signage erected by the Rotorua Residents and Ratepayers group.

Public consultation ends on December 7.