Illegal banners to cost more: GBA plans penalty linked to area guidance value

Greater Bengaluru Authority asks city corporations to crack down on unauthorised flexes and banners by imposing fines based on local guidance value, with penalties likely between 2% and 5%.

The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is preparing a tougher framework to curb the growing problem of illegal flexes and banners across the city by introducing penalties linked to the guidance value of the location where they are installed.

Under the proposed plan, the five city corporations have been instructed to take strict action against unauthorised flexes and banners. The penalty will be calculated based on the guidance value of the area in which the illegal display is erected, making violations in prime localities significantly more expensive.

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While the exact percentage is yet to be finalised, GBA sources indicate that the penalty for unauthorised banners is likely to range between 2% and 5% of the guidance value of the land where the flex or banner is placed. Municipal laws already provide for such penalties, enabling civic bodies to legally recover fines for unauthorised use of public spaces.

The decision follows a recent video conference chaired by GBA Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao, during which detailed instructions were issued to address the persistent problem of visual clutter caused by illegal banners.

Bengaluru has previously seen action against such violations. In one instance, a complaint was registered against the son of a former mayor for putting up banners to mark his father’s birthday.

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However, identifying those responsible continues to pose a major challenge, as political leaders often appear on banners put up for various occasions and deny direct involvement. To address this, GBA is considering making it compulsory for banners to carry the name and address of the printing agency.

In addition, city engineers will be tasked with identifying prominent leaders featured on banners and contacting them to trace the individuals responsible. Police CCTV footage may also be accessed to track vehicles transporting posters and publicity materials, helping authorities fix accountability.

The proposed measures aim to strengthen enforcement, deter violations and reduce unauthorised visual pollution across Bengaluru.

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