HB 579 Summary

• Clarifies standards for determining just compensation when off-premises outdoor advertising signs (billboards) are removed by the Department of Transportation or local governments.

• Prohibits use of the "unit rule" (paying undivided interest in real property) when calculating compensation and establishes nine specific factors to determine fair market value, including sales prices of similar signs, physical condition, rental income, zoning restrictions, permit value, and relocation ability.

• Requires counties and cities to pay monetary compensation before removing lawfully erected nonconforming off-premises outdoor advertising signs, with limited exceptions for public nuisances, health/safety hazards, and relocation to comparable locations.

• Prohibits local governments from conditioning development approvals (rezoning, variances, building permits) on removal of off-premises outdoor advertising without monetary compensation.

• Directs the Department of Transportation to adopt implementing rules within six months using expedited rulemaking procedures, with required public notice, comment periods, and hearings.