Don’t go posting signs on utility poles

You might have done it once or even watched a friend or family member go down to the corner, stapler in hand, and fasten their news to the nearest light pole.

They are very public, visible and easily accessible, making them seemingly great billboards.

But you can’t just go posting signs on utility poles, and Hawaiian Electric reminds residents that it’s not only illegal, it poses a safety hazard for utility workers.

Signs include, but are not limited to, announcements, fundraisers, garage sales, business advertising, campaign advertising, community events and missing persons or pets.

An unauthorized attachment to utility equipment is a violation of Hawai‘i state laws governing the control of outdoor advertising and unlawful posting in public places and Hawai‘i County street codes.

Violators are subject to fines or community service.

The staples and nails used to attach signs to poles also can injure and puncture the personal protective equipment worn by utility workers tasked with maintaining and repairing the equipment when necessary.

Violators will be notified, and Hawaiian Electric van remove and discard the signs. If necessary, the company also can notify the state and county of the violation.

Hawaiian Electric asks for the public’s cooperation to remove any signs they posted on utility poles. Removing illegal signs can hinder or delay crews from completing work and can impact service to customers.

To report signs on utility poles, call customer service 808-969-6999.