A. The director shall adopt and enforce rules governing the placing, maintenance and removal of outdoor advertising. The rules shall be consistent with:

1. 1. The public policy of this state to protect the safety and welfare of the traveling public.
2. 2. This article.
3. 3. The terms of the agreement with the United States secretary of transportation pursuant to section 28-7907.
4. 4. The national standards, criteria and regulations promulgated by the United States secretary of transportation pursuant to 23 United States Code section 131.

B. The director shall define by rule unzoned commercial or industrial areas, defined hardship areas and defined areas along the interstate and primary systems. The definitions shall:

1. 1. Be consistent with the definitions of these areas provided in this article and in the agreement with the United States secretary of transportation pursuant to section 28-7907.
2. 2. Take into consideration the negative economic impact and economic hardship of these areas.