Bandit Sign Roundup
South Kensington Community Partners
Did you know it is is illegal in Philadelphia to post or pay someone to post a sign on a streetlight, utility pole, traffic sign, historical marker, or street tree??
The Philadelphia Zero Waste & Litter Cabinet is holding an Illegal Signs Roundup from June 1st – June 15th, offering community groups $0.50 per sign up to 500 signs to remove illegal signs posted in the right-of-way throughout the city. Through the Illegal Signs Roundup, the Zero Waste & Litter Cabinet is working with community partners who are working on the ground to remove signs and make Philadelphia neighborhoods cleaner.
South Kensington Community Partners is excited to be participating in this initiative, and hopes our neighbors will join in!
Why collect signs?
While posting any sign on a streetlight or utility pole is illegal in Philadelphia, the “We Buy Houses” signs often target long-time homeowners who may be behind on mortgage or tax payments and are pressured into selling homes quickly for less than they are worth. This practice targets low-income homeowners and contributes to economic and racial segregation.
These signs are also an eyesore and contribute to litter in the neighborhood.
How can I help?
Help us collect signs! Join us on Saturday, June 9 for a morning of collecting signs and reporting neighborhood conditions to 311. If you can’t make it, feel free to collect signs on your own and drop them off at the SKCP office.
What happens to the money?
SKCP can make up to $250 from participating in this initiative, and will use the funds to further our work to assist low-income neighbors, tend and preserve neighborhood green spaces, host community events, plant trees, clean vacant lots, and bring the community voice to neighborhood development.
What can we do about predatory homebuyers?
Many homeowners feel pressured into selling their homes due to unpaid mortgage or property taxes. Make sure your neighbors know about the Save Your Home Philly Hotline, operated by Philadelphia Legal Assistance, that provides free legal advice and referrals to homeowners at any stage in the foreclosure process. Call 215-334-HOME (4663) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for help.