The Institute for Justice, a Libertarian, public-interest law firm, has released a three-minute video that cites examples where municipalities have used sign codes to stifle free speech. The Institute’s Michael Bindas discussed several precedents where cities have reportedly abused their power.
The Institute spearheaded a lawsuit against the City of Dallas when it restricted window and building-facade signage. Similarly, the organization interceded against the city of Richmond when it attempted to use eminent domain to shut down Central Radio to give land to Old Dominion Univ. When the company erected a banner on its exterior walls, enacted an ordinance that deemed the building against code.