The Government of Himachal Pradesh, on April 18, 2026, issued the Nagar Panchayat Chirgaon Outdoor Advertisement Bye-laws 2026.
The following are the key highlights:
• Permission Mandatory: No advertisement can be displayed on land, buildings, or structures without prior written approval from the Secretary, except for limited categories like newspaper ads, government notices, or business-related displays on premises.
• Strict Prohibitions:
o No hoardings on highways, footpaths, trees, sharp turns, water sources, or environmentally sensitive areas.
o Maximum hoarding size capped at 16 sq. meters.
o Rooftop ads require special permission.
o Ads must not damage natural beauty (hills, rivers, forests).
• Road Safety Focus: Advertisements must not distract drivers, obstruct views, mimic traffic signals, or create hazards. Flashing lights, moving displays, and high-glare lighting are restricted.
• Content Restrictions: Bans on ads promoting nudity, violence, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, exploitation, or anything illegal, obscene, or defamatory.
• Types of Advertisements: Classified into four categories including large billboards, public amenity ads, transport-related ads, and self-advertising in commercial areas.
• Technical & Structural Norms:
o Structures must meet safety standards (wind, earthquakes, etc.).
o Lighting must be controlled and non-distracting.
o Renewable energy use (e.g., solar) gets fee concessions.
• Application & Approval:
o Decisions on applications must be made within 30 days (else deemed approved with conditions).
o Large ads (over 120 sq. ft.) on public property require tendering.
• Fees & Charges: Based on size, category, and location; starting rate ₹300 per sq. meter for 6 months (up to 120 sq. ft.).
Overall, the bye-laws aim to ensure safe, regulated, and environmentally responsible advertising while maintaining urban aesthetics and public safety.
