AP launches strict rules for outdoor ads to clean up city spaces
In a move to improve city skylines and strengthen urban safety, the Andhra Pradesh government has unveiled a new policy to regulate outdoor advertising across all municipalities and corporations. The initiative aims to reduce visual clutter, ensure safer public spaces and boost civic revenues.
The government has notified ‘The Andhra Pradesh Regulation and Control of Display Devices (Promotion of Products and Services) in Urban Local Bodies Rules, 2025’. The order (G.O. Ms. No.253) was issued on Tuesday by S. Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of Municipal Administration and Urban Development.
Officials said the policy backs Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision for cleaner, investment-ready cities. Unregulated hoardings, flex banners near sensitive areas, and weak structures have long posed risks, particularly during storms.
Under the new rules, advertisers must follow strict guidelines on placement, safety and content. Any display larger than 50 sq. ft. will require a structural safety certificate, annual inspections and liability insurance. Hoardings near places of worship, hospitals, schools, major junctions and heritage sites will be barred. Content deemed offensive or socially harmful will also be prohibited.
Licences are compulsory for all display devices, and each unit must carry visible identification. Advertising rights on municipal properties will be allotted through public auctions to raise civic income. A digital platform for applications, payments and monitoring will be launched within 45 days.
“This is a reform for citizens,” Mr. Suresh Kumar said, adding that Andhra Pradesh aims to set a national benchmark in regulating outdoor displays.