eTHEKWINI Municipality’s signage department has intensified its drive to curb the spread of illegal advertisements in the city’s streets, especially those misleading the public.
Those who are caught advertising illegally face a fine of R954 per poster.
Most of the illegal advertisements are pasted on street poles, rubbish bins and bus shelters around the city.
Ntombi Maema, advertising manager at the signage department said the city has employed full-time signage inspectors to ensure compliance with municipal by-laws.
“These advertisements mislead people and we are losing revenue as companies are advertising in our space free of charge. This uncontrolled advertising makes our city look dirty, so we are taking a stand to end this.”
Maema urged businesses to utilise legal means and to submit their art work to the department if they want to advertise, because it’s cheaper and safer.
Residents should also be on the lookout for fake advertisements and to report these to the municipality.
“Legal posters are identified via a municipal logo or stamp. A different colour is used each month to avoid illegal reproduction of posters.”
The campaign also includes the removal of illegal adverts and multi-disciplinary raids on premises where illegal abortions take place, and where perpetrators will be arrested.
To verify if a street advert is legitimate or for information on advertising space, contact Thulani Zuke on 031-311-7061 or Thulani.Zuke@durban.gov.za, alternatively contact Thabane Nawe on 031-311-7974 or Thabane.Nawe@durban.gov.za.
