Hollywood sign sparks suburb battle

Los Angeles - Residents of the posh neighbourhoods near the world-famous Hollywood sign are engaging in extreme tactics in a bid to stem a flood of tourists from overwhelming their streets, the Los Angeles Times reported on Monday.

The report said that the prevalence of GPS navigation, tour buses and internet sites detailing how to get close to the iconic landmark have caused a huge spike in the number of tourists visiting the area to get their photo taken in front of the movie capital's giant symbol.

In a bid to deter the visitors, some in the area have posted anti-tourist signs.

"Warning - Tourist-Free Zone - All Tourists Leave the Area," orders one.

"Tourists Go Away," states another, according to the report. Other residents have directed tourists to visit a nearby park for their photo ops, rather than cruise the hilly streets of the neighbourhood.

The report also said that rival neighbourhood groups are posting online guides that direct tourists to other areas to see the sign, encouraging them with false information about the hospitality of the residents and the accessibility of the sign, which is fenced off and monitored with cameras to prevent people entering.

"For years, the trail that leads to the Hollywood sign has only been known to those who live here. We believe it is time to open this area to everyone," says one website.

"Often-times residents will have lemonade stands set up, offering the perfect thirst quencher after an exhilarating hike to the sign. They're wonderful folks!"