The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has directed all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) nationwide to verify the ownership and permits of billboards in their jurisdictions to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Sector Minister Mahama Ayariga said assemblies must submit records of authorised billboards by November 13. Physical inspections are scheduled to begin in Accra on November 14.
The minister emphasised that the exercise targets both unauthorised structures and those erected in the wrong locations even after permits were granted.
He warned that possession of a permit does not absolve owners of responsibility if the billboard violates regulations.
“How to get the message across to all those who are erecting billboards without permit, or who even if they are given the permit, they do erect it unlawfully, even after they’ve had a permit, they do erect it at the wrong place even after they’ve had a permit? It doesn’t absolve you of responsibility and we would go and enforce by pulling down those billboards,” Ayariga stated.
He directed MMDCEs to conduct thorough checks within their areas, identify illegal structures and remove them.
Permitted billboards must also meet standards set by the Ghana Standards Authority.
“This exercise is going to be nationwide, so all MMDCEs, please check the billboards within your municipalities, check which ones are lawfully standing there and which ones are illegal structures, and pull down the illegal structures. But even for those that you have expressly permitted, please check and make sure that they are complying with the standards set by the Ghana Standards Authority,” the minister said.
The directive forms part of efforts to enforce outdoor advertising regulations and improve public safety across the country.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
