The city of Austin is pursuing legal action to address what it describes as a “prohibited” billboard placed on Bee Caves Road, near the intersection of River Hills Road.

The overview

An Austin Development Services Department representative confirmed Aug. 18 that the billboard’s owners, Media Choice, had not taken the appropriate action required in the city’s notice of violation within 14 days of its issuance July 30.

Consequently, the case was taken to municipal court, the representative said. As of Sept. 5, a court hearing has not yet been scheduled.

The background

The billboard currently displays an advertisement for the Cicero Institute.

The party responsible for the billboard’s construction, Media Choice, was issued a notice of violation from the city July 30 following local resident complaints regarding the sign’s appearance.

The city’s notice described the construction as being “unpermitted” and “prohibited,” and recommended removal of the sign as well as its associated electrical service.

The city did not receive any requests or applications for the billboard prior to its construction, a department representative said.

Members of Media Choice have not responded to requests for comment on the billboard as of press time.

What else?

Enforcement action taken by the city may involve fines of up to $2,000 per day, or suspension or cancellation of the project site plan, permit or certificate of occupancy, according to the city’s July 30 notice.