The "Yaza" association stated in a press release that "after the increase in chaos in the billboard sector and its threat to public safety, the number of these billboards has exceeded the population and vehicles combined, causing a serious problem that threatens public safety and the environment in Lebanon. There are many violations of Decree No. 1302 issued on January 15, 2015, regarding the installation of billboards along the coastline, highways, bridges, and sidewalks. Public and private property has been indiscriminately invaded to the extent that the phrase 'Green Lebanon' can be replaced with 'Billboard Lebanon'.
The association noted that billboards are "one of the causes of traffic accidents on the roads, as the presence of this vast number of billboards in various sizes, often placed randomly, obscures drivers' visibility and plays a significant role in distracting drivers from driving, leading often to tragic traffic accidents and numerous casualties on the roads."
It added: "It may seem repetitive that the billboard sector in Lebanon is still engulfed in rampant chaos, despite the issuance of Decree No. 1302 in 2015, which aims to keep pace with the requirements of the modern age and reduce the ongoing anarchy. Yaza questioned the effectiveness of this material as it does not include any specific, clear, and enforceable standards. Furthermore, Yaza continued: 'Additionally, the fifth paragraph of Article 15 prohibits the billboard owner from leaving hanging ropes and plastic ties from the billboards, but, like its predecessors, it does not include any clear penalties for violators nor does it define responsibilities.'
Yaza called for "the reissuance of a decree or law that clearly outlines the quality and type of billboards, their installation methods, and maintenance requirements, as well as the establishment of a punitive framework for violators. As for large billboards, they should be installed under the supervision of a specialized engineer, who should share in the responsibility, as the burden of responsibility should not fall solely on the business owner. Sharing responsibility would enhance compliance with the law and public safety conditions."
It emphasized that "the regulation of billboards should not violate traffic laws in any way."
