Significantly, it is a means of expression that is particularly important to grassroots community groups and citizens of moderate means. This is not necessary in view of the registration requirements of the Ordinance. Requiring that names and addresses be placed on signs infringes on a constitutionally recognized right to engage in anonymous speech. This right is in particular need of protection when the content of the posted sign bears a political message. Since disclosure requirements undoubtedly tend to restrict the freedom to distribute and consequently deter free speech, the latter right encompasses the right to remain anonymous.
Anonymity is a shield from the tyranny of the majority.
Because the Department has a record of who it assigns registration numbers to, placing this number alone on the sign adequately protects the City's interest in identifying sign-posters and holding them accountable for removal of the sign. Unlike parades and demonstrations, handbilling is not so inherently intrusive or disruptive that it requires prior registration. Under proposed section 184.71, the imposition of civil and criminal penalties could be imposed upon someone who neglects to trek downtown to register prior to distributing handbills to publicize a yard sale or lost cat. Also, this requirement would appear to require registration of each person who seeks to distribute campaign literature door to door, and, together with the administrative fees, would significantly deter this means of communication. The City's goal of eliminating unsightly clutter is legitimate, but it is simply unfair to place the burden of achieving that goal on the shoulders of private speakers while allowing the government, with its superior resources, free reign.