Sign Ordinance

     Driving down the streets of Myrtle Beach I am bombarded with signs advertising "Pete's Putt-Putt Palace" and "Wings Surf Shop." Instead of seeing a beautiful view of the ocean I am stuck looking at bright, flashy, and obnoxious billboards. However while driving down the streets of Cary I see quaint suburban homes and not twenty foot long flashing posters. The lack of unnecessary visual pollution is due to the strict sign ordinances the Town of Cary enforces.

     Some people argue that strict sign ordinances are unnecessary and limit expression; however, according to “North Carolina Living” one of the main reasons people move to Cary is the atmosphere. There are people specifically moving to areas because of the attractive environment that is not overwhelmed with needless advertisements. Sign ordinances and regulations provide a uniform area that is pleasing to look at. Sometimes Cary is called “the city for families” because it gives off a kid-friendly atmosphere, an atmosphere that does not include large billboards advertising the new bar downtown. Currently, out of the whole country Cary was voted one of the “best” places to live.  Cary enforces strict ordinances so that they can keep their reputation, they want more families to migrate to their city and contribute to their local economy. The “homey” feeling people get when they visit Cary is due to the open skies and visually appealing ambiance.

     Sign ordinances provide regulation and uniformity to areas, allowing them to be appealing and welcoming. Yes, maybe “Pete’s Putt-Putt Palace” does sound like a good time, but I would rather be able to see the beach than the distracting monstrous sign. 

Work Cited:

City ordinance keeps stars bright and city lights low. (2001). Building Operating Management, 48(5), 22-22. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/203452627?accountid=45237

Cocke, A. (2001). Savannah ordinance questioned. Architecture, 90(8), 35-35. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/227806403?accountid=45237

Stryker, R. (2011, Sign, sign, everywhere a sign. The Camping Magazine, 84, 8-8,10. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/893925148?accountid=45237