Saudi Arabia’s SHC 307: Landscape Planting and Outdoor Advertising Guidelines

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The Saudi Highway Code (SHC) 307 – Landscape Planting and Outdoor Advertising provides comprehensive guidelines for highway landscape design, vegetation management, and outdoor advertising regulations. The roadside environment plays a crucial role in safety, aesthetics, and sustainability, while advertising regulations ensure that signage does not cause distractions or obstruct visibility.

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This guide establishes standards for landscape classification, planting design, irrigation systems, and placement of advertisements, ensuring a balance between urban development, environmental sustainability, and road safety in Saudi Arabia.

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1. Landscape Planting in Highway Design

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1.1 Importance of Landscape Design

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✔ Enhances the aesthetic appeal of highways and urban roads.
✔ Reduces heat island effects by incorporating greenery.
✔ Improves air quality and supports ecological balance.
✔ Prevents soil erosion and manages stormwater runoff.
✔ Enhances road safety by reducing headlight glare and providing clear zones.

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1.2 Roadside Landscape Classifications

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SHC 307 categorizes landscape designs into different zones based on their location and function:

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1.2.1 Rural Areas

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✔ Focuses on low-maintenance vegetation and erosion control.
✔ Uses native species to support biodiversity.
✔ Minimizes environmental disruption and integrates with natural landscapes.

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1.2.2 Suburban Areas

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✔ Balances green spaces with infrastructure.
✔ Requires carefully planned trees and shrubs to provide shade while maintaining visibility.
✔ Encourages buffer zones between roadways and residential areas.

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1.2.3 Urban Areas

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✔ Incorporates aesthetic landscaping with public spaces.
✔ Uses tree-lined streets, small parks, and decorative planting.
✔ Enhances walkability and pedestrian safety.

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1.3 Key Landscape Design Principles

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✔ Safety – Avoids obstructing sightlines and ensures clear zones for errant vehicles.
✔ Aesthetics – Uses visually appealing plants and trees that enhance the urban fabric.
✔ Sustainability – Prefers drought-resistant plants to reduce water consumption.
✔ Cost-Effectiveness – Ensures minimal maintenance costs and longevity.

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1.4 Irrigation System Guidelines

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SHC 307 provides technical recommendations for efficient irrigation systems:

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✔ Primary Systems – Large-scale irrigation for parks, median strips, and green belts.
✔ Secondary Systems – Drip irrigation and sprinklers for trees and shrubs.
✔ Tertiary Systems – Localized watering for specific plant beds and high-traffic areas.
✔ Smart Irrigation – Automated and weather-responsive systems for water conservation.

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2. Outdoor Advertising Regulations in Saudi Arabia

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2.1 Overview of Outdoor Advertising Standards

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Outdoor advertising must balance commercial visibility with road safety and environmental aesthetics. SHC 307 establishes strict placement and design regulations to prevent visual clutter and distractions.

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2.2 Classification of Advertising Signs

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✔ Building-Mounted Signs – Installed on commercial buildings and shopping centers.
✔ Roadside and Highway Billboards – Must adhere to visibility and spacing requirements.
✔ Bridge & Tunnel Signage – Limited to directional and safety-related messages.
✔ Street Fixtures and Public Spaces – Used for government-approved campaigns only.

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2.3 Safety Regulations for Roadside Advertising

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✔ Avoids driver distractions – Flashing lights and animated signs are strictly controlled.
✔ Maintains visibility – Ensures adequate sight distance at intersections and pedestrian crossings.
✔ Prohibits obstruction – No advertisements near traffic signals or road signs.
✔ Lighting requirements – Billboards must use controlled illumination to prevent glare.

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2.4 Placement and Spacing Guidelines

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✔ Minimum Distance Between Billboards – Prevents visual overload.
✔ Location Restrictions – Advertisements are prohibited in scenic areas and cultural heritage sites.
✔ Legibility Standards – Ensures that messages are clear and do not confuse drivers.

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3. Environmental Considerations in Roadside Landscaping and Advertising

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SHC 307 aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting:

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✔ Eco-friendly highway landscapes that reduce carbon footprints.
✔ Sustainable billboard materials that minimize environmental impact.
✔ Reduced light pollution through smart LED lighting on advertisements.
✔ Wildlife protection measures by restricting advertising near natural reserves.

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Conclusion

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The SHC 307 standards for landscape planting and outdoor advertising play a crucial role in ensuring that Saudi Arabia’s roads are safe, visually appealing, and environmentally responsible. By following these guidelines, urban planners and developers can create a more sustainable and efficient transportation network that enhances both safety and commercial viability.

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🚧 A well-designed roadside environment contributes to a safer and more beautiful Saudi Arabia!

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