Illuminated signs

Act 176 of 1929, § 1601-Q.2, under THE FISCAL CODE.

Act 176 of 1929, § 1601-Q.2

Section 1601-Q.2. Illuminated signs.

(a) Permission.--A public transportation vehicle may carry on the rear or side of the vehicle illuminated signs, or surfaces designed to be illuminated signs, placed so as not to interfere with the vision of the driver through the rear window, if any, of the vehicle. Illuminated signs, or surfaces designed to be illuminated signs, shall be of a size and type designed not to interfere with or unduly distract drivers of other vehicles on the highway. The sign or surface shall include features that enhance road safety, including enhanced turn signals and brake lights, by connecting the sign or surface to a vehicle operation indicator. The sign or surface shall be able to communicate with the public through real-time, geofenced and global positioning system enabled technology by providing information and advertising to the public, including public service announcements and emergency alerts. The size and placement of the sign or surface must receive approval of the department or be a type approved by the department prior to use on the vehicle.

(b) Regulations.--The department may within 180 days of the effective date of this subsection issue technical guidelines and promulgate regulations for the certification and use of illuminated signs.

(c) Definitions.--As used in this section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings given to them in this subsection unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Public transportation vehicle." A vehicle used for the purpose of public passenger transportation or a transportation system under 74 Pa.C.S. Chs. 15 (relating to sustainable mobility options) and 17 (relating to metropolitan transportation authorities) and operated by, or under an agreement with, a public entity, including an airport, port authority, public transit agency, State-owned institution or State-related institution or another Federal, State, county or local government entity or agency. The term includes a bus, light rail or train. The term does not include a school bus or vehicle used for charter or sightseeing services.

(1601-Q.2 added Nov. 12, 2025, P.L.156, No.45)