Governor Signs Padavan's "Lawn Litter Law" Implementing Legislaiton Into Law

Frank Padavan

February 3, 2008

 New York State Senator Frank Padavan (Queens) announced today that Governor Spitzer has signed the implementing legislation for his popular “Lawn Litter” Law. The original legislation establishing the “Lawn Litter” Law was approved by the Governor during the summer.

 “Countless residents, civic organizations and community groups and I were united in our fight against the growing trend of unwanted advertisements, fliers and literature unscrupulously left on homes throughout Queens and the City,” Padavan said. “Thanks to their tireless and vocal support we were able to enact this law that will help protect our quality of life, promote neighborhood cleanliness and security, increase our efforts to protect our environment and foster civic pride.”

The legislation signed into law mandates that all signs posted by residents must state in one inch letters “Do Not Place Unsolicited Advertising Materials On This Property.” The sign must also be at least five inches tall and seven inches wide and placed in a conspicuous location at a homeowner’s property. The law also establishes that the Mayor designate an agency or agencies to enforce provisions of the “Lawn Litter Law.” Padavan stressed that residents should expect a 60-90 day implementation period for the City to establish rules and regulations in relation to the “Lawn Litter Law.”

Additionally, the “Lawn Litter Law” imposes a civil penalty, of not less than $250 and no more than $1,000 for each violation, on businesses who do not adhere to a sign posted by a resident.

 “This law is the solution to the incessant amount of leaflets, advertisements and fliers that litter our lawns and streets,” Padavan said. “Under this quality of life law residents throughout Queens and the City will be happier and businesses will be able to effectively target interested and potential customers while saving money on unneeded and unwanted materials.”

 Senator Padavan also announced he will be providing interested residents with their own “Lawn Litter” sign free of charge. Residents can pick up a “Lawn Litter Sign” compliments of Senator Padavan at his Bellerose office located at 89-39 Gettysburg Street, Monday thru Friday from 9am to 5pm. Residents can also pick up a sign at Padavan’s Whitestone office located 150-26 14th Avenue, Monday thru Friday from 9am to 1pm.