KSAMC Reminds Public of Signage Restrictions in Designated Areas

The Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) is reminding the public that signage restrictions apply in all designated sterile areas across the municipality, regardless of whether signs have been erected to identify them.

Four key intersections identified by the Corporation for the initial phase of the programme are Matilda’s Corner; the intersection of Old Hope Road and Mountain View Avenue; the intersection of Shortwood Road and Upper Waterloo Road; and the intersection of West Kings House Road and Constant Spring Road.

Deputy Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Lorraine Dobson, said the restrictions are intended to safeguard public safety, accessibility and the character of shared spaces, and apply not only to the four intersections identified for the initial phase of the Corporation’s work.

Addressing the KSAMC’s recent monthly meeting in downtown Kingston, Councillor Dobson noted that the restrictions are established under the Town and Country Planning Framework, including provisions regulating the display of advertisements.

She noted that sterile areas generally include major intersections, heritage sites, and coastal locations where signage can compromise public safety, accessibility and the overall aesthetic of these important spaces.

Councillor Dobson emphasised that the areas mentioned are not the only locations where signage restrictions apply, noting that “they are simply where we are beginning this phase of our work.”

The Deputy Mayor advised that the KSAMC has started installing sterile-area signs as a temporary public education measure to raise awareness of the restrictions and clarify where advertisements may and may not be placed.

Councillor Dobson said the Corporation ultimately hopes that members of the public will recognise and respect designated sterile areas without having to rely on physical signs as reminders.

The KSAMC will initially focus on event signage, which is frequently erected around major intersections and other prominent locations.

Additionally, promoters, businesses, organisations and other persons responsible for placing advertisements are being urged to observe the restrictions and ensure that promotional materials are erected only in permitted areas.

Councillor Dobson also advised that the Corporation intends to engage with signage companies as part of its ongoing consultations with the advertising industry.

“They are important partners in this process, and we want to ensure that those designing, producing and installing signs are clear on where signage can and cannot be placed,” she said.

The Deputy Mayor stressed that maintaining sterile areas is a shared responsibility that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders, noting that compliance cannot rest solely with the municipal authority.

“Our aim is not to prevent advertising, but to ensure that it is done responsibly without compromising safety, accessibility or the character of Kingston and St. Andrew,” she said.