Billboards being removed.
PHILIPSBURG--The St Maarten Police Force KPSM, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure VROMI, has launched an enforcement operation to remove unauthorised billboards and advertisements placed along public roads.
Many of these signs were installed without the required permits, violating Article 5 of the Public Works Ordinance (Landsverordening Openbare Werken), which states that no structures may be placed on public land or near public roads without prior approval from the competent authority.
According to the ordinance, the VROMI Infrastructure Management Department and the KPSM Traffic Department are responsible for jointly advising on billboard applications, while the Ministry of Justice is responsible for issuing the official permit prior to any installation.
“This structure ensures that proposed billboards must meet safety, design, and location requirements before they are approved,” KPSM stated in a press release.
Despite several previous public warnings from the government of St Maarten and the Ministry of VROMI, many billboards and signs remain non-compliant. KPSM warned that illegal signage poses risks to traffic safety, causes visual pollution, and disrupts the orderly use of public space.
The public is being reminded that a formal permit must be obtained from the Department of Permits at VROMI before placing any billboard or sign in public view. Applications must include the design, dimensions, materials, and proposed location. No billboard may be installed until official written approval is granted by the Ministry of Justice.
Enforcement actions have now begun, and any unpermitted signs will be removed without prior notice.
KPSM and VROMI are urging all individuals, businesses, and organisations to act responsibly and comply with the regulations to help maintain the safety, beauty, and organisation of St. Maarten’s public roads and infrastructure.
https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/police-vromi-begin-removing-illegal-billboards-on-public-roads
