Roadside marketing and posters, which have divided opinion, will be the topic of a feedback campaign aimed at moving the island from “reactive enforcement to a modern, practical and collaborative approach” on the use of signs, MPs heard.

Diallo Rabain, the Minister of the Cabinet Office and Digital Innovation, told the House of Assembly that regulations governing signage needed updates to reflect “the needs and expectations of a modern Bermuda”.

The legislation, dating back to 1911, got its last major revision in 1989.

Mr Rabain said: “It is not an exaggeration to state that, if enforced strictly, these rules would ban many common signs and displays seen today on buildings, sidewalks in Hamilton and along roadsides.

“This has led to inconsistent and outdated enforcement, if any at all.”

The increasing use of banners advertising events was raised in Parliament last month.

On that occasion David Burt, the Premier, pointed out that the Advertising Regulations Act was wide-ranging, including restrictions on building signs to a height of 12in, which would put “many buildings in the City of Hamilton” technically out of step.

Mr Rabain said banners, posters and roadside advertisements, ranging from commercial to community ventures, had supporters as well as detractors.

He added: “Some view them as effective tools for reaching audiences, while others see them as visual clutter that negatively impacts neighbourhoods and public spaces.”

He said that “signage for other commercial purposes” also needed to be addressed.

Mr Rabain said his ministry had begun collecting information in recent weeks, including on locations where banners were most prevalent, and the common users of roadside advertising, with the aim of “understanding the landscape so we can develop a fair and modern solution”.

He said a consistent theme was that the present arrangement “isn't effective”.

“Enforcement alone cannot solve the fundamental issue — it is therefore imperative that the legal framework is updated,” the minister added.

Mr Rabain said meetings would be held with “event organisers, promoters, businesses and community groups that frequently use banners and signs” to share findings, discuss the risks under present conditions and “hear directly from those most affected about what a workable framework should look like”.

A public consultation period is to follow, to develop “fair, transparent and enforceable” rules.

Mr Rabain said suggestions already received included “designated signage zones, setting clear time limits, offering digital alternatives and establishing consistent and proportionate enforcement — all of these ideas will be taken into consideration”.

He added that a dedicated e-mail address was launched: signsfeedback@gov.bm.

“This is not merely about responding to complaints,” he said. “It is about ensuring Bermuda’s laws are fit for purpose — supporting cultural and economic activity while protecting the character and beauty of our island.”

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Banners and Signs

• To read the minister’s statement in full, see Related Media