Out-of-home (OOH) advertising faces a maze of regulations that vary dramatically across the globe. These OOH regulations often reflect unique local values, safety concerns, and aesthetic priorities. However, is there such thing as ‘weird laws’?
As we all know, regulations or laws are set to avoid conflicts. It is a STRICTLY-NO-OFFENSIVE-REMARKS area. This is the field where players are ought to play nicely without jeopardising others’ (most-likely emotional) health.
Stay with us to get more exciting insights on OOH advertising all around the world!
São Paulo, Brazil: A Billboard-Free Metropolis
In 2006, São Paulo made headlines with its groundbreaking “Clean City Law,”. This movement banned all forms of outdoor advertising. This radical regulation, aimed at curbing visual pollution, resulted in the removal of about 15,000 billboards. The city’s skyline transformed almost overnight to a rare view free of commercial clutter.
Chandler, Arizona, USA: The Red Rule
In Chandler, Arizona, a peculiar rule prohibits the use of red on billboards. This regulation showcases an intersection of advertising and road safety, where colour choice becomes a matter of public welfare. Wipe off your tears, Coca Cola. Your colour is too distracting for drivers.
Alaska and Vermont, USA: Nature First
Both Alaska and Vermont have taken bold steps to preserve their natural beauty. What did they do? They ban billboards. Alaska’s ban, in place since 1998, and Vermont’s since 1968, ensure that breathtaking landscapes remain unmarred by commercial ads. These regulations highlight one thing. It’s a commitment to maintaining scenic vistas over potential advertising revenue.
Hawaii, USA: Island Aesthetics
Hawaii’s strict billboard ban, dating back to the 1920s, aims to keep the islands visually pristine. This long-standing regulation protects the unspoiled charm that is a key part of Hawaii’s allure. This is to ensure that the natural environment remains the focal point for both residents and tourists.
Moscow, Russia: Height Matters
Another one of the weird laws existed is in Moscow. OOH advertising must adhere to height restrictions to prevent overshadowing historical landmarks and disrupting the city’s skyline. This regulation ensures that modern advertisements do not clash with the city’s rich architectural heritage.
But why would they set up their billboard near the historical landmarks, though? Something for you to ponder on.
Billboard placement in Malaysia are strategically located across the country.
Don’t think so? Contact our media specialists to prove your point.
Tokyo, Japan: Light Control
Tokyo’s streets are famous for their vibrant digital billboards. Billboards in Japan has never failed to leave our jaw agape. But even here, regulations impose limits on brightness. Advertisers must ensure their signs do not exceed specific luminance levels. This is to reduce light pollution and enhance public safety. In other words, they can keep their futuristic vibe intact, but at the same time, mind the practical concerns regulated.
Paris, France: Cultural Sensitivity
Paris enforces strict OOH regulations around historical monuments and cultural districts. Advertisements cannot overshadow the aesthetic and historical value of these areas. This respect for cultural heritage ensures that the city’s iconic landmarks remain the primary visual attractions.
Tehran, Iran: Content Control
One of Tehran’s weird laws in OOH advertising regulations impose rigid content controls. The concern particularly revolves around the portrayal of women. Advertisements must align with local cultural and religious norms, reflecting a broader societal influence on commercial messaging.
Hasselt, Belgium: Public Space Protection
In Hasselt, billboards are banned from public spaces such as parks and streets. This regulation aims to keep public areas free from commercial influence. This aims to preserve them as spaces for community and leisure rather than advertising.
So… which of these surprised you?
These diverse OOH regulations reveal how different regions balance commercial interests. Each regulation tells a story about what a community cherishes and strives to protect. Malaysia has our very own unique, or weird laws too! Although most of them can make us raise our eyebrows, it is important to note that these regulations are set to ensure everyone’s safety… and peace of mind.
Anyways, let’s just continue on doing the one thing we’re most good at: abide!
OOH advertising is all fun and games when you get the best advice
from your trusted OOH specialists.
Image Credits: 99% Invisible, WCAX, KOTA, The Guardian
