Hermosa Beach OKs Flyer Ban

The Hermosa Beach City Council on Tuesday passed a revamped handbill ordinance, making it a misdemeanor to post flyers on street lights and other public property.

The ordinance, which goes into effect 30 days after passage, was approved unanimously over the objections of real estate agents, who often advertise open houses with a series of flyers posted along major streets.

Councilman Chuck Sheldon initially tried to gain an exemption for real estate agents and people holding garage sales, but voted with the majority after his motion failed to get a second.

The new ordinance makes it illegal not only to post flyers on public property but also to distribute such advertisements on private property where a “No Advertising” sign has been posted. Penalties can reach a maximum of $1,000 plus six months in jail.