A law that lets companies clearcut trees in front of billboards takes effect July 1st. It will also cut down on so-called 'skyscraper' billboards and signs with racier content.

Ray Moyers with the Outdoor Advertising Association speaks for dozens of billboard companies. He says in order to get the new permit, higher billboards must come down.

"If they have a sign that is taller than 75 feet, they will have to lower their signs to 75 feet or less once they do their clearcut," says Moyers. "That will take care of some of these towering signs."

Moyers says people will also notice fewer billboards for strip clubs, massage parlors, and other sex businesses. In exchange for the right to clearcut, billboard owners told lawmakers they would give up those contracts.

Moyers says the law doesn’t give companies license to cut everything... just what’s within 350 feet. And he says historic trees and state beautification projects will be spared.

Some cities are unhappy about the law, saying local investment in greenery will be wasted.

Tags: billboards, clearcutting, Outdoor Advertising Association of Georgia