Bandit Signs Prohibited??

Question

I just called the town hall of the city I was going to place bandit signs in and they informed me that any type of bandit sign is prohibited.  I checked the zoning ordinance as well and it looks like its a no go.

Anyone else have this issue?  Are you still putting the signs up?  I'm thinking that I may still be able to put the signs on telephone polls since they are the property of the electric company and not the town.  Afterall, I have seen Yard Sale signs on them from time to time.

James Hiddle · Answer

I hate bandit signs and I can't stand when guru's shove that marketing ploy down peoples throats as if it's the best thing since sliced bread.

Michael Quarles · Answer

Ive bought a fair share of houses because of bandit signs however I've never put one in the ground.  Just put your number in the local white pages under "I buy houses and we buy houses". You'll get calls from people not writing the Number down.

Alex Hart · Answer

Justin,

Bandit signs have worked in the past for me but as others have mentioned the leads you receive from them are usually not that great. I get far better results just sending out direct mail, placing craigslist ads, and placing a newspaper ad every now & then.

Brian P. · Answer

Justin

Actually the best thing to do is read the ordinance, many just limit the places they are prohibited, and there is room to place them legally. I had one Barney Fife enforcement person almost crying because he found out he couldn't cite me because as I pointed out my signs were legal. He took up the cause to change that and over a year later the city amended the code, but he was kind enough to show up at my door with a copy of the new law. At least he didn't wait for the law to be in effect and then cite me, but I think he just wanted to crow about look what I got passed.

Justin Silverio · Answer

Thanks Rob.  I'm trying to get off on the right foot in my area.  Actually, while I was looking at the zoning ordinance, I noticed that the building department has a registration form for abandoned/foreclosed properties.  I'm going to stop down there at some point to see what the form is for and if the public has access to it.  Might be another potential deal source.  :)

Rob Gillespie · Answer

Justin,
That was cool of you to call first, but most folks just hang them and get them torn down. Honestly, most of the leads they generate are not that great. Networking and letting people know what you do will get you further faster. Just my 2 cents. :mrgreen:

Justin Silverio · Answer

THank you all for the replies.  Looks like I will focus on other marketing techniques.

Scott R. · Answer

In my city they are illegal. its hard to get away with something that clearly has your contact info on it..

N.A N.A · Answer

Most municipalities you can get away with having them up for a little bit of time.  However, be warned they will fine you and I would advise against putting them on telephone polls.  Most municipalities have the authority to take the signs down regardless if they are placed on the polls.

Scot Stafford · Answer

In the past I have hired people to put them out on Friday evening and pick them up late Sunday night.  That way the city workers are not on the clock.  I would say that it wasn't worth the effort though.

Bandit Signs Prohibited??

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