DCRA fines Uline Arena owner for unpermitted signs

By Geoff Hatchard (Editorial Board Alum) August 5, 2011

Photo by the author.

DCRA has decided that large billboard-style signs on the side of the Uline Arena are illegal.

Douglas Development placed 3 large signs on the side of the building where MARC, Metro, and Amtrak riders can see them.

I questioned whether these are legal, since DC has a short list of allowable billboard-sized “special signs” which doesn’t mention the Uline.

According to DCRA, they sent inspectors to take a look at the signs, and they’ve issued an infraction notice to Douglas, the property owner. Douglas has the right to appeal, but if they choose not to, they’ll have to pay a fine of $2,000 and take the signs down.