§8–730.

    (a)    Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Administration may not issue a permit for any outdoor sign along or near any federal–aid primary highway, if the sign:

        (1)    Imitates or resembles any official traffic sign, signal, or device;

        (2)    Is erected or maintained on any tree or painted or drawn on any rock or other natural feature;

        (3)    Is erected or maintained in a way that:

            (i)    Obscures or otherwise interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, signal, or device; or

            (ii)    Obstructs or interferes with a driver’s view of approaching, merging, or intersecting traffic;

        (4)    Is located within 250 feet of any public park, public forest, playground, or cemetery that is adjacent to a federal–aid primary highway; or

        (5)    Is along or near a scenic byway located on the federal–aid primary highway.

    (b)    (1)    This subsection applies only in Calvert County and St. Mary’s County.

        (2)    The Administration may, in conformance with federal law, issue a permit for an outdoor sign along or near a scenic byway located on a federal–aid primary highway if the sign:

            (i)    Was erected on or before January 1, 2008; or

            (ii)    Is a directional sign for a facility that:

                1.    Sells principally local agricultural or aquacultural products; and

                2.    Is located within a 5–mile radius of the sign.

        (3)    A sign erected under this subsection shall be erected and maintained in a manner that is safe and does not detract from the scenic or cultural character of the scenic byway along which the sign is located.