The Highway Advertising Program (HAP) is part of the Utility Coordination and Permits Section of MDOT. Federal law mandates the state establish procedures for effective control of signs along regulated routes. These control procedures are:

• Permitting of signs, displays and devices in areas adjacent to the interstate system, Federal Aid Primary System, and freeways.
• Maintaining inventories and periodic surveillance of controlled routes in order to discover illegal signs.
• Monitoring other signs controlled by the Highway Advertising Act of 1972, as amended.

The intent of the HAP is to protect the public investment in highways, to promote the safety and recreational value of public travel, and to preserve natural beauty.


All highway advertising permit applications are submitted and purchased through the Michigan Business OneStop online service. For questions and assistance navigating this submittal process, please call the Customer Assistance Center; toll free, at 877-766-1779.

• Information on Political Signage
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Forms
• Highway Advertising Act of 1972, PA 106
• 23USC131 (U.S. Code) - Outdoor Advertising
• Code of Federal Regulations
• Vegetation Removal
• Billboard Permit Payment Instructions

For more information, contact:

Melissa Staffeld
Highway Advertising Specialist
P.O. Box 30050
Lansing, Michigan 48909
517-335-2209
StaffeldM@michigan.gov