1. The Legislature hereby finds and declares that:

(a) The erection and maintenance of outdoor advertising signs, displays and devices, in areas adjacent to the rights-of-way of the interstate highway system and the primary highway system within this state, is a legitimate commercial use of private property adjacent to roads and highways and that regulation and control or removal of such outdoor advertising is necessary to the system of state highways declared essential by NRS 408.100.

(b) The erection and maintenance of such advertising in such locations must be regulated:

(1) To prevent unreasonable distraction of operators of motor vehicles, confusion with regard to traffic lights, signs or signals and other interference with the effectiveness of traffic regulations;

(2) To promote the safety, convenience and enjoyment of travel on the state highways in this state;

(3) To attract tourists and promote the prosperity, economic well-being and general welfare of the State;

(4) For the protection of the public investment in the state highways; and

(5) To preserve and enhance the natural scenic beauty and aesthetic features of the highways and adjacent areas.

(c) All outdoor advertising which does not conform to the requirements of NRS 410.220 to 410.410, inclusive, is contrary to the public safety, health and general welfare of the people of this state.

(d) The removal of signs adjacent to the rights-of-way of the interstate or primary highway system within this state which provide directional information about goods and services in the interest of the traveling public and which:

(1) Were erected in conformance with the laws of the State of Nevada and subsequently became nonconforming under the requirements of 23 U.S.C. § 131; and

(2) Were in existence on May 6, 1976,

could create substantial economic hardships in defined hardship areas within the State of Nevada.

2. It is the intent of the Legislature in NRS 410.220 to 410.410, inclusive, to provide a statutory basis for regulation of outdoor advertising consistent with the public policy declared by the Congress of the United States in areas adjacent to the interstate and primary highway systems.

(Added to NRS by 1971, 1325; A 1977, 564)