SB 63

Abstract

Amends the Highway Advertising Control Act of 1971. Provides for updated procedures for the Department of Transportation to follow regarding signs permitted by the Act. Provides that upon change of sign ownership, the new owner of the sign shall notify the Department and supply the necessary information on a form provided by the Department to transfer the permit for such sign at no cost within 120 days (rather than 60 days) after the change of ownership. Provides that the Department shall acknowledge to the new sign owner the receipt of such request within 14 calendar days. Provides that when a sign owner intends to convert a legal conforming sign from a static sign face to a digital sign face, a new permit shall not be required. Effective immediately. Senate Floor Amendment No. 1 Replaces everything after the enacting clause. Provides that within 90 days of July 1, 1972, or the owner being notified of a new controlled route subject to the Act being added, specified signs must be registered with the Department of Transportation by the owner of the sign, on forms obtained from the Department. Provides that the Department shall have up to 45 days to complete its review and approve the permit application or notify the applicant of any and all deficiencies necessary for the Department's approval. Provides that if a permit application is for a sign within an area subject to the Airport Zoning Act, the Department shall notify the applicant in writing that the review process will exceed specified timelines and shall complete its own review of the permit application pending approval under the Airport Zoning Act. Provides that upon a change of ownership of a sign permit or sign registration (instead of sign ownership), the new owner of the sign permit or sign registration shall notify the Department to confirm the change of ownership and supply the necessary information in writing or on a form provided by the Department to transfer (instead of to renew) the permit or registration for such sign at no cost within 120 days (instead of 60 days) after the change of ownership. Provides that when a sign owner intends to upgrade an existing legal permitted sign to a multiple message sign with a digital display, the Department shall not require a new sign permit. Removes language providing that any permit not so renewed shall become void. Sets forth provisions concerning permit addendum applications. Makes other changes concerning permit applications and permit renewal. Provides that a person aggrieved by any action of the Department in denying an application or revoking a permit or registration under this Act may, within 30 days after receipt of the notice of denial or revocation, apply to the Department for an administrative hearing pursuant to the Administrative Review Law. Makes other changes. Effective immediately.