The city of Denison has enacted a new ordinance that outlines permitted signage types within municipal boundaries. A central provision of the rule bans the installation of new billboards. Dianne York, the city’s planning manager, confirmed that the city moved forward with this prohibition to update local regulations.
Existing billboard structures are not required to be removed immediately. City officials stated that current signs may remain in place as long as they are not demolished or reconstructed. However, any new construction of such signs is now forbidden under the updated code.
City staff initiated the development of this ordinance in 2023 to modernize sign rules that had remained unchanged since 2013. The new regulations also limit the placement of new pole and pylon signs to the U.S. 75 corridor. York explained that this specific area was selected due to its topography and high speed limits, factors that the sign committee deemed necessary for allowing such signage.
The primary objective of the ordinance is to preserve the natural character of the community. York noted that the rules aim to maintain environmental aspects valued by residents, including tree coverage and unobstructed views of the sky. She stated that billboards disrupt this visual line of sight, which the city seeks to protect.
The ordinance also introduces a provision for signs that are at least 50 years old. These structures can be designated as vintage and are permitted to remain even if they do not comply with current standards. Additionally, the new rules strengthen the city’s ability to enforce regulations regarding old and dilapidated signs, with the goal of improving the appearance of corridor areas over time.
