Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, the Administration may not issue a permit for any outdoor sign along or near any federal–aid primary highway, if the sign: Imitates or resembles any official traffic sign, signal, or device; Is erected or maintained on any tree or painted or drawn on any rock or other natural feature; Is erected or maintained in a way that: Obscures or otherwise interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, signal, or device; or Obstructs or interferes with a driver’s view of approaching, merging, or intersecting traffic; Is located within 250 feet of any public park, public forest, playground, or cemetery that is adjacent to a federal–aid primary highway; or Is along or near a scenic byway located on the federal–aid primary highway. This subsection applies only in Calvert County and St. Mary’s County. The Administration may, in conformance with federal law, issue a permit for an outdoor sign along or near a scenic byway located on a federal–aid primary highway if the sign: Was erected on or before January 1, 2008; or Is a directional sign for a facility that: Sells principally local agricultural or aquacultural products; and Is located within a 5–mile radius of the sign. A sign erected under this subsection shall be erected and maintained in a manner that is safe and does not detract from the scenic or cultural character of the scenic byway along which the sign is located.