This sign outside Solly's Tavern on U Street won't cause the bar to be fined by DDOT. (Photo: TBD Staff)

All this debate over sandwich board signs in Arlington County reminded me that the District of Columbia went through a similar kerfuffle last year.

When current DDOT Director Gabe Klein took office in 2009, one of his first acts was to announce a push to begin enforcing an old law that bans sidewalk signs on city streets. Business owners were told they'd soon be receiving $150 fines if they failed to comply with a law that had long been ignored. But after Ward 1 D.C. Councilmember Jim Graham kicked up a fuss over the plan, its implementation was delayed pending further review.

So what's the story today?

"Currently we will enforce if the signs are considered a safety hazard to pedestrians," says DDOT spokesperson John Lisle. "For example, if a sign is in the middle of the sidewalk or blocking an accessibility ramp."

All other sidewalk signs, such as those placed immediately adjacent to a building or business entrance, won't currently invoke the wrath of the District, according to Lisle.