February is the “month of love,” thanks to Valentine’s Day and the legend of St. Valentine, who famously united couples against the odds. What better time to show a little extra LOVE for Davis Islands? Here are just a few ways DICA and our neighbors can help keep our community clean, safe, and truly lovely.

1. Show a Little Love by Removing Illegal “Snipe Signs.”

We have all seen them: little “We Buy Houses,” landscaping, or window-washing ads placed in medians or stapled to poles and trees. They may be small, but snipe signs live up to their name because they sneak in, clutter our streetscape, and are illegal.

These signs aren’t allowed for several reasons. They create safety hazards by distracting drivers when placed near medians, sidewalks, or utility poles. They also contribute to visual clutter, blocking views and making our streets look neglected. Beyond that, they violate both the City of Tampa Land Development Code and Hillsborough County ordinances.

If you spot one, feel free to remove it or submit an Illegal or Snipe Sign Complaint through the City’s online portal. One sign gone, one loving neighbor — that’s how a cleaner, more charming Davis Islands begins.

A sparkling Davis Islands doesn’t happen all at once.  It happens in tiny, meaningful moments. Maybe it’s a cup on the sidewalk, a bottle by the seawall, or a wrapper caught near a curb. When we scoop it up, even casually, we keep our island looking beautiful and prevent debris from drifting into the bay. Every little bit really does make a difference.

Construction dust, lawn clippings, and landscape debris may seem harmless, but when blown into the street, they head straight for our already fragile stormwater system. Clogged drains contribute to flooding, water pollution, and costly blockages. Sweep debris and bag it; never blow it.

We love our dogs, and our island loves them too, but their waste isn’t just messy. Besides being unpleasant for neighbors, dog waste carries bacteria and pathogens that wash into storm drains when it rains. Once in the water, they can spread disease and harm wildlife. A quick cleanup protects our pets, people, and the surrounding bay.

There’s something special about coming together to care for the place we love. Whether it’s a DICA event, a Garden Club project, or a local volunteer effort, community cleanups are fun, social, and a great way to pass island pride on to the next generation. Keep an eye out for upcoming dates. We’d love to see you there!