NOTE: This online course is taken through NHI's new Library Management System, Blackboard. Visit their NHI Blackboard LMS Kickoff page for more information.

Instructions on how to create an account with Blackboard and locate this training will be included in your confirmation email and can be found on your UMTC profile's registration portal page.

The Highway Beautification Act (HBA) of 1965 mandated a state program, based on Federal rules and regulations, for improving motorists' visual experiences on the roadway. The HBA affects billboards and advertisements along State roadways. The Outdoor Advertising and Litter Control course familiarizes maintenance personnel with the rules and regulations governing placement and control of outdoor advertising along highway rights-of-way to ensure they are in compliance with the standards stipulated in the HBA. Additionally, the course covers litter control safety for public groups assisting State DOTs in litter pickup.

Participants learn about the rules and regulations for maintaining and controlling outdoor advertising, guidance on administering an outdoor advertising program, the steps involved in the permitting process, and appropriate actions for non-compliance by sign owners. Additionally, participants are encouraged to compare the standards outlined in the HBA to their State's rules and regulations, which may include stricter provisions than those in the HBA.

This training was developed as part of the Maintenance Training Series (134109). The series consists of 11 Self-Directed trainings (SDTs) on various maintenance operations topics, ranging from the conceptual (pavement preservation) to the practical (management of underground storage tanks). The trainings included in the Series are listed below and each will take approximately 1 hour to complete:

• Pavement Preservation Program (134109A)
• Shaping and Shoulders (134109B)
• Thin HMA Overlays and Leveling (134109C)
• Base and Subbase Stabilization and Repair (134109D)
• Roadway Drainage (134109E)
• Outdoor Advertising and Litter Control (134109F)
• Roadside Vegetation Management (134109G)
• Weather-related Operations (134109H)
• Basics of Work Zone Traffic Control (134109I)
• Underground Storage Tanks (134109J)
• Cultural and Historic Preservation (134109K)

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to: 

• Identify Federal and State regulations, laws, ordinances, guidelines, and policies governing outdoor advertisement placement
• Describe the permit process
• Describe the role of the maintenance supervisor in outdoor advertising control

Target Audience:

This course was designed for State, regional, and county personnel who manage operations programs and deal with oversight and quality assurance over broader geographic areas. The target audience is also involved with handling materials, scheduling, budgeting and planning.

*Take a look at NHI’s How-To Guides for tips & tricks on using their system.

Direct any NHI website or training questions or issues to the NHI HELP/FAQ page or contact NHI directly via NHICustomerService@dot.gov or 1-877-558-6873.

Disclaimer: Accommodations for Disabilities: UMTC endeavors to provide an inclusive learning environment for all. If you require special services or arrangements to fully participate in this workshop, please email Stephanie Cottrell  or call 413-800-2655 at least 14 days prior to the event. Such services are provided free of charge.