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CHAPTER 2B. REGULATORY SIGNS
Section 2B.01 Application of Regulatory Signs
Standard:
Regulatory signs shall be used to inform road users of selected traffic laws or regulations and indicate
the applicability of the legal requirements.
Regulatory signs shall be installed at or near where the regulations apply. The signs shall clearly
indicate the requirements imposed by the regulations and shall be designed and installed to provide
adequate visibility and legibility in order to obtain compliance.
Regulatory signs shall be retroreflective or illuminated to show the same shape and similar color by
both day and night, unless specifically stated otherwise in the text discussion of a particular sign or group
of signs (see Section 2A.08).
The requirements for sign illumination shall not be considered to be satisfied by street, highway, or
strobe lighting.
Section 2B.02 Design of Regulatory Signs
Support:
Most regulatory signs are rectangular, with the longer dimension vertical. The shapes and colors of
regulatory signs are listed in Tables 2A-3 and 2A-4, respectively. Exceptions are specifically noted in the
following Sections.
The use of educational plaques to supplement symbol signs is described in Section 2A.13.
Guidance:
Changeable message signs displaying a regulatory message incorporating a prohibitory message that includes
a red circle and slash on a static sign should display a red symbol that approximates the same red circle and slash
as closely as possible.
Section 2B.03 Size of Regulatory Signs
Standard:
The sizes for regulatory signs shall be as shown in Table 2B-1.
Guidance:
The Freeway and Expressway sizes should be used for higher-speed applications to provide larger signs for
increased visibility and recognition.
Option:
The Minimum size may be used on low-speed roadways where the reduced legend size would be adequate
for the regulation or where physical conditions preclude the use of the other sizes.
The Oversized size may be used for those special applications where speed, volume, or other factors result in
conditions where increased emphasis, improved recognition, or increased legibility would be desirable.
Signs larger than those shown in Table 2B-1 may be used (see Section 2A.12).
Section 2B.04 STOP Sign (R1-1)
Standard:
When a sign is used to indicate that traffic is always required to stop, a STOP (R1-1) sign (see Figure
2B-1) shall be used.
The STOP sign shall be an octagon with a white legend and border on a red background. Secondary
legends shall not be used on STOP sign faces. If appropriate, a supplemental plaque (R1-3 or R1-4) shall
be used to display a secondary legend. Such plaques (see Figure 2B-1) shall have a white legend and
border on a red background. If the number of approach legs controlled by STOP signs at an intersection
is three or more, the numeral on the supplemental plaque, if used, shall correspond to the actual number
of legs controlled by STOP signs.
At intersections where all approaches are controlled by STOP signs (see Section 2B.07), a supplemental
plaque (R1-3 or R1-4) shall be mounted below each STOP sign.
Option:
The ALL WAY (R1-4) supplemental plaque may be used instead of the 4-WAY (R1-3) supplemental plaque.
Support:
The design and application of Stop Beacons are described in Section 4K.05.
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.01 to 2B.
Page 2B-2 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.
Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign Sizes (Sheet 1 of 5)
Stop R1-1 2B.04 750 x 750 (30 x 30)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
— 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48) Yield R1-2 2B.08 900 x 900 x 900 (36 x 36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 x 1200 (48 x 48 x 48)
1500 x 1500 x 1500 (60 x 60 x 60)
750 x 750 x 750 (30 x 30 x 30)
To Oncoming Traffic R1-2a — 600 x 300 (24 x 12)
4-Way R1-3 2B.04 300 x 150 (12 x 6)
All Way R1-4 2B.04 450 x 150 (18 x 6)
Yield Here to Peds R1-5 2B.11 450 x 450 (18 x 18)
Yield Here to Pedestrians R1-5a 2B.11 450 x 600 (18 x 24)
In-Street Ped Crossing R1-6,6a 2B.12 300 x 900 (12 x 36)
Speed Limit (English) R2-1 2B.13 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
Speed Limit (Metric) R2-1 2B.13 600 x 900 (24 x 36)
900 x 1350 (36 x 54)
1200 x 1650 (48 x 66)
Truck Speed Limit (English)
R2-2 2B.14 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
Truck Speed Limit (Metric)
R2-2 2B.14 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1050 (36 x 42)
1200 x 1350 (48 x 54)
Night Speed Limit (English)
R2-3 2B.15 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
Night Speed Limit (Metric)
R2-3 2B.15 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1050 (36 x 42)
1200 x 1350 (48 x 54)
Minimum Speed Limit (English)
R2-4 2B.16 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
Minimum Speed Limit (Metric)
R2-4 2B.16 600 x 900 (24 x 36)
900 x 1350 (36 x 54)
1200 x 1650 (48 x 66)
Combined Speed Limit (English)
R2-4a 2B.16 600 x 1200 (24 x 48)
900 x 1800 (36 x 72)
1200 x 2400 (48 x 96)
Combined Speed Limit (Metric)
R2-4a 2B.16 600 x 1350 (24 x 54)
900 x 1950 (36 x 78)
1200 x 2550 (48 x 102)
Fines Higher R2-6 2B.17 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
Turn Prohibition R3-1,2,3,4, 18
2B.19 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
— — 1200 x 1200 (48 x 48) Mandatory Movement Lane Control
R3-5 series 2B.21 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Optional Movement Lane Control
R3-6 2B.22 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Mandatory Movement Lane Control
R3-7 2B.21 750 x 750 (30 x 30)
Advance Intersection Lane Control
R3-8,8a,8b 2B.23 variable x 750 (variable x 30)
Two-Way Left Turn Only (overhead mounted)
R3-9a 2B.24 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Two-Way Left Turn Only (ground mounted)
R3-9b 2B.24 600 x 900 (24 x 36)
— — — 900 x 1200 (36 x 48) Reversible Lane Control (symbol)
R3-9d 2B.25 2700 x 1200 (108 x 48)
Reversible Lane Control (ground mounted)
R3-9f 2B.25 750 x 1050 (30 x 42)
Advance Reversible Lane Control Transition Signing
R3-9g,9h 2B.25 2700 x 900 (108 x 36)
End Reverse Lane R3-9i 2B.25 2700 x 1200 (108 x 48)
Preferential Only Lane Ahead (ground mounted)
R3-10 series 2B.26 750 x 1050 (30 x 42)
900 x 1500 (36 x 60)
1950 x 2400 (78 x 96)
Preferential Only Lane Operation (ground mounted)
R3-11 series 2B.26 750 x 1050 (30 x 42)
— 1950 x 2400 (78 x 96)
Sign
MUTCD
Code
Conventional
Road
Section Expressway Freeway Minimum Oversized
Page 2B-4 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.
No Parking R7-1,2,2a,3, 4,5,6,7,8, 107,
2B.39 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Van Accessible R7-8a,8b 2B.40 450 x 225 (18 x 9)
— — 300 x 150 (12 x 6)
No Parking, Bike Lane R7-9,9a 9B.09 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
No Parking (with transit logo)
R7-107a 2B.39 300 x 750 (12 x 30)
No Parking / Restricted Parking (combined sign)
R7-200 2B.40 600 x 450 (24 x 18) 300 x 750 (12 x 30)
Tow Away Zone R7-201,201a 2B.40 300 x 150 (12 x 6)
This Side of Sign R7-202 2B.39 300 x 150 (12 x 6)
No Parking on Pavement R8-1 2B.39 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
No Parking Except on Shoulder
R8-2 2B.39 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
No Parking R8-3 2B.39 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
450 x 600 (18 x 24)
No Parking (symbol) R8-3a 2B.39 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
300 x 300 (12 x 12)
Emergency Parking Only R8-4 2B.42 750 x 600 (30 x 24)
750 x 600 (30 x 24)
1200 x 900 (48 x 36)
No Stopping on Pavement R8-5 2B.39 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
No Stopping Except on Shoulder
R8-6 2B.39 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
1200 x 1500 (48 x 60)
Emergency Stopping Only R8-7 2B.42 750 x 600 (30 x 24)
1200 x 900 (48 x 36)
Do Not Stop on Tracks R8-8 2B.42 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1200 (36 x 48)
Tracks Out of Service R8-9 8B.09 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
900 x 900 (36 x 36)
— 450 x 450 (18 x 18)
Stop Here When Flashing R8-10 8B.10 600 x 900 (24 x 36)
— — 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
Walk on Left Facing Traffic R9-1 2B.43 450 x 600 (18 x 24)
Cross Only at Crosswalks R9-2 2B.44 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
No Pedestrian Crossing R9-3 2B.44 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
No Pedestrian Crossing (symbol)
R9-3a 2B.44 450 x 450 (18 x 18)
600 x 600 (24 x 24)
750 x 750 (30 x 30)
Use Crosswalk R9-3b 2B.44 450 x 300 (18 x 12)
No Hitch Hiking R9-4 2B.43 450 x 600 (18 x 24)
— — 450 x 450 (18 x 18)
Hitch Hiking Prohibition (symbol)
R9-4a 2B.43 450 x 450 (18 x 18)
Bicyclists (symbol) Use Ped Signal
R9-5 9B.10 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Bicyclists (symbol) Yield to Peds
R9-6 9B.10 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Keep Left/Right to Pedestrians & Bicyclists (symbols) – Travel-path Restriction
R9-7 9B.11 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Pedestrian Crosswalk R9-8 6F.12 900 x 450 (36 x 18)
Sidewalk Closed R9-9 6F.13 750 x 450 (30 x 18)
Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign Sizes (Sheet 3 of 5)
Sign MUTCD
Code
Conventional
Road
Section Expressway Freeway Minimum Oversized
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.
Sidewalk Closed, Use Other Side
R9-10 6F.13 1200 x 600 (48 x 24)
Sidewalk Closed Ahead, Cross Here
R9-11 6F.13 1200 x 900 (48 x 36)
Sidewalk Closed, Cross Here
R9-11a 6F.13 1200 x 600 (48 x 24)
Cross On Green Light Only
R10-1 2B.45 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Pedestrian Traffic Signal Signs
R10-2,
2a,3,3a,3b, 3c,3d,4,4a,4b
2B.45 225 x 300 (9 x 12)
Countdown Pedestrian Sign
R10-3e 2B.45 225 x 375 (9 x 15)
Left on Green Arrow Only R10-5 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
— — — 1200 x 1500 (48 x 60) Stop Here on Red R10-6 2B.45 600 x 900 (24 x 36)
Stop Here on Red R10-6a 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
Do Not Block Intersection R10-7 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
Use Lane with Green Arrow
R10-8 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
900 x 1050 (36 x 42)
— — 1500 x 1800 (60 x 72) Left (Right) Turn Signal R10-10 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
No Turn on Red R10-11,11a 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
— — — 1200 x 1200 (48 x 48)
No Turn on Red R10-11b 2B.45 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
— — — 750 x 750 (30 x 30) Left Turn Yield on Green R10-12 2B.45 600 x 750 (24 x 30)
Emergency Signal R10-13 2B.45 900 x 600 (36 x 24)
Turning Traffic Must Yield To Pedestrians
R10-15 2B.45 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
U-Turn Yield to Right Turn R10-16 2B.45 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Right on Red Arrow After Stop
R10-17a 2B.45 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Traffic Laws Photo Enforced
R10-18 2B.46 900 x 450 (36 x 18)
1200 x 750 (48 x 30)
1800 x 900 (72 x 36)
Photo Enforced R10-19 2B.46 600 x 450 (24 x 18)
900 x 750 (36 x 30)
1200 x 900 (48 x 36)
MON—FRI (and times) (3 lines)
R10-20a 2B.45 600 x 600 (24 x 24)
SUNDAY (and times) (2 lines)
R10-20a 2B.45 600 x 450 (24 x 18)
Left Turn Signal— Yield on Green
R10-21 2B.45 750 x 900 (30 x 36)
Bike Actuation R10-22 9B.12 300 x 450 (12 x 18)
Sign
MUTCD
Code
Conventional
Road
Section Expressway Freeway Minimum Oversized
Table 2B-1. Regulatory Sign Sizes (Sheet 4 of 5)
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.05 to 2B.
Once the decision has been made to install two-way stop control, the decision regarding the appropriate
street to stop should be based on engineering judgment. In most cases, the street carrying the lowest volume of
traffic should be stopped.
A STOP sign should not be installed on the major street unless justified by a traffic engineering study.
Support:
The following are considerations that might influence the decision regarding the appropriate street upon
which to install a STOP sign where two streets with relatively equal volumes and/or characteristics intersect:
A. Stopping the direction that conflicts the most with established pedestrian crossing activity or school
walking routes;
B. Stopping the direction that has obscured vision, dips, or bumps that already require drivers to use lower
operating speeds;
C. Stopping the direction that has the longest distance of uninterrupted flow approaching the intersection; and
D. Stopping the direction that has the best sight distance to conflicting traffic.
The use of the STOP sign at highway-railroad grade crossings is described in Section 8B.08. The use of the
STOP sign at highway-light rail transit grade crossings is described in Section 10C.04.
Section 2B.06 STOP Sign Placement
Standard:
The STOP sign shall be installed on the right side of the approach to which it applies. When the STOP
sign is installed at this required location and the sign visibility is restricted, a Stop Ahead sign (see Section
2C.29) shall be installed in advance of the STOP sign.
The STOP sign shall be located as close as practical to the intersection it regulates, while optimizing its
visibility to the road user it is intended to regulate.
STOP signs and YIELD signs shall not be mounted on the same post.
Guidance:
Other than a DO NOT ENTER sign, no sign should be mounted back-to-back with a STOP sign in a manner
that obscures the shape of the STOP sign.
Support:
Section 2A.16 contains additional information about separate and combined mounting of other signs with
STOP signs.
Guidance:
Stop lines, when used to supplement a STOP sign, should be located at the point where the road user should
stop (see Section 3B.16).
If only one STOP sign is installed on an approach, the STOP sign should not be placed on the far side of the
intersection.
Where two roads intersect at an acute angle, the STOP sign should be positioned at an angle, or shielded, so
that the legend is out of view of traffic to which it does not apply.
Where there is a marked crosswalk at the intersection, the STOP sign should be installed in advance of the
crosswalk line nearest to the approaching traffic.
Option:
At wide-throat intersections or where two or more approach lanes of traffic exist on the signed approach,
observance of the stop control may be improved by the installation of an additional STOP sign on the left side of
the road and/or the use of a stop line. At channelized intersections, the additional STOP sign may be effectively
placed on a channelizing island.
Support:
Figure 2A-2 shows examples of some typical placements of STOP signs.
Section 2B.07 Multiway Stop Applications
Support:
Multiway stop control can be useful as a safety measure at intersections if certain traffic conditions exist.
Safety concerns associated with multiway stops include pedestrians, bicyclists, and all road users expecting other
road users to stop. Multiway stop control is used where the volume of traffic on the intersecting roads is
approximately equal.
The restrictions on the use of STOP signs described in Section 2B.05 also apply to multiway stop applications.
Page 2B-8 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.07 to 2B.
Guidance:
The decision to install multiway stop control should be based on an engineering study.
The following criteria should be considered in the engineering study for a multiway STOP sign installation:
A. Where traffic control signals are justified, the multiway stop is an interim measure that can be installed
quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made for the installation of the traffic control
signal.
B. A crash problem, as indicated by 5 or more reported crashes in a 12-month period that are susceptible to
correction by a multiway stop installation. Such crashes include right- and left-turn collisions as well as
right-angle collisions.
C. Minimum volumes:
1. The vehicular volume entering the intersection from the major street approaches (total of both
approaches) averages at least 300 vehicles per hour for any 8 hours of an average day, and
2. The combined vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle volume entering the intersection from the minor
street approaches (total of both approaches) averages at least 200 units per hour for the same 8 hours,
with an average delay to minor-street vehicular traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle during the
highest hour, but
3. If the 85th-percentile approach speed of the major-street traffic exceeds 65 km/h or exceeds 40 mph,
the minimum vehicular volume warrants are 70 percent of the above values.
D. Where no single criterion is satisfied, but where Criteria B, C.1, and C.2 are all satisfied to 80 percent of
the minimum values. Criterion C.3 is excluded from this condition.
Option:
Other criteria that may be considered in an engineering study include:
A. The need to control left-turn conflicts;
B. The need to control vehicle/pedestrian conflicts near locations that generate high pedestrian volumes;
C. Locations where a road user, after stopping, cannot see conflicting traffic and is not able to reasonably
safely negotiate the intersection unless conflicting cross traffic is also required to stop; and
D. An intersection of two residential neighborhood collector (through) streets of similar design and
operating characteristics where multiway stop control would improve traffic operational characteristics of
the intersection.
Section 2B.08 YIELD Sign (R1-2)
Standard:
The YIELD (R1-2) sign (see Figure 2B-1) shall be a downward-pointing equilateral triangle with a
wide red border and the legend YIELD in red on a white background.
Support:
The YIELD sign assigns right-of-way to traffic on certain approaches to an intersection. Vehicles controlled
by a YIELD sign need to slow down or stop when necessary to avoid interfering with conflicting traffic.
Section 2B.09 YIELD Sign Applications
Option:
YIELD signs may be used instead of STOP signs if engineering judgment indicates that one or more of the
following conditions exist:
A. When the ability to see all potentially conflicting traffic is sufficient to allow a road user traveling at the
posted speed, the 85th-percentile speed, or the statutory speed to pass through the intersection or to stop
in a reasonably safe manner.
B. If controlling a merge-type movement on the entering roadway where acceleration geometry and/or sight
distance is not adequate for merging traffic operation.
C. The second crossroad of a divided highway, where the median width at the intersection is 9 m (30 ft) or
greater. In this case, a STOP sign may be installed at the entrance to the first roadway of a divided
highway, and a YIELD sign may be installed at the entrance to the second roadway.
D. An intersection where a special problem exists and where engineering judgment indicates the problem to
be susceptible to correction by the use of the YIELD sign.
Standard:
A YIELD (R1-2) sign shall be used to assign right-of-way at the entrance to a roundabout intersection.
Page 2B-10 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.10 to 2B.
Except at roundabout intersections, where there is a marked crosswalk at the intersection, the YIELD sign
should be installed in advance of the crosswalk line nearest to the approaching traffic.
At a roundabout intersection, to prevent circulating vehicles from yielding unnecessarily, the face of the
YIELD sign should not be visible from the circulatory roadway.
Option:
At wide-throat intersections or where two or more approach lanes of traffic exist on the signed approach,
observance of the yield control may be improved by the installation of an additional YIELD sign on the left side
of the road and/or the use of a yield line. At channelized intersections, the additional YIELD sign may be
effectively placed on a channelizing island.
Section 2B.11 Yield Here To Pedestrians Signs (R1-5, R1-5a)
Standard:
If yield lines are used in advance of an unsignalized marked midblock crosswalk, Yield Here To
Pedestrians (R1-5 or R1-5a) signs (see Figure 2B-2) shall be placed 6.1 to 15 m (20 to 50 ft) in advance of
the nearest crosswalk line (see Section 3B.16 and Figure 3B-15).
Section 2B.12 In-Street Pedestrian Crossing Signs (R1-6, R1-6a)
Option:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6 or R1-6a) sign (see Figure 2B-2) may be used to remind road users
of laws regarding right of way at an unsignalized pedestrian crossing. The legend STATE LAW may be shown at
the top of the sign if applicable. The legends STOP FOR or YIELD TO may be used in conjunction with the
appropriate symbol.
Guidance:
If an island (see Chapter 3G) is available, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign, if used, should be placed on
the island.
Standard:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be used at signalized locations.
The STOP FOR legend shall only be used in States where the State law specifically requires that a
driver must stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
If used, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend (except for the red STOP or
YIELD sign symbols) and border on either a white and/or fluorescent yellow-green background.
If the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign is placed in the roadway, the sign support shall comply with
the breakaway requirements of the latest edition of AASHTO’s “Specification for Structural Supports for
Highway Signs, Luminaires, and Traffic Signals” (see Page i).
Support:
The Provisions of Section 2A.18 concerning mounting height are not applicable for the In-Street Pedestrian
Crossing sign.
Option:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign may be used seasonably to prevent damage in winter because of
plowing operations, and may be removed at night if the pedestrian activity at night is minimal.
Section 2B.13 Speed Limit Sign (R2-1)
Standard:
After an engineering study has been made in accordance with established traffic engineering practices,
the Speed Limit (R2-1) sign (see Figure 2B-1) shall display the limit established by law, ordinance,
regulation, or as adopted by the authorized agency. The speed limits shown shall be in multiples of 10
km/h or 5 mph.
Guidance:
At least once every 5 years, States and local agencies should reevaluate non-statutory speed limits on
segments of their roadways that have undergone a significant change in roadway characteristics or surrounding
land use since the last review.
No more than three speed limits should be displayed on any one Speed Limit sign or assembly.
When a speed limit is to be posted, it should be within 10 km/h or 5 mph of the 85th-percentile speed of
free-flowing traffic.
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.13 to 2B.
R1-5 R1-5a R1-6 R1-6a
Figure 2B-2. Unsignalized Pedestrian Crosswalk Signs
Option:
Other factors that may be considered when establishing speed limits are the following:
A. Road characteristics, shoulder condition, grade, alignment, and sight distance;
B. The pace speed;
C. Roadside development and environment;
D. Parking practices and pedestrian activity; and
E. Reported crash experience for at least a 12-month period.
Two types of Speed Limit signs may be used: one to designate passenger car speeds, including any nighttime
information or minimum speed limit that might apply; and the other to show any special speed limits for trucks
and other vehicles.
A changeable message sign that changes the speed limit for traffic and ambient conditions may be installed
provided that the appropriate speed limit is shown at the proper times.
A changeable message sign that displays to approaching drivers the speed at which they are traveling may be
installed in conjunction with a Speed Limit sign.
Guidance:
If a changeable message sign displaying approach speeds is installed, the legend YOUR SPEED XX km/h
(MPH) or such similar legend should be shown. The color of the changeable message legend should be a yellow
legend on a black background or the reverse of these colors.
Support:
Advisory Speed signs are discussed in Sections 2C.36 and 2C.46 and Temporary Traffic Control Zone Speed
signs are discussed in Part 6.
Section 2B.14 Truck Speed Limit Sign (R2-2)
Standard:
Where a special speed limit applies to trucks or other vehicles, the legend TRUCKS XX or such
similar legend shall be shown on the same panel as the Speed Limit sign or on a separate R2-2 sign
(see Figure 2B-1) below the standard legend.
B. A supplemental plaque WHEN CHILDREN (WORKERS) ARE PRESENT; or
C. A supplemental plaque WHEN FLASHING (similar to the S4-4 plaque shown in Figure 7B-1) if used in
conjunction with a yellow flashing beacon.
The legend FINES HIGHER may be replaced by multiple values such as FINES DOUBLE or FINES
TRIPLE, or by a specific value such as $150 FINE.
Standard:
The FINES HIGHER plaque shall be a rectangle with a black legend and border on a white
background.
All supplemental plaques mounted below the FINES HIGHER plaque shall be rectangles with black
legends and borders on white backgrounds.
The FINES HIGHER plaque shall include a SCHOOL, WORK ZONE, or other applicable designated
zone plaque mounted above the applicable regulatory or warning sign. The SCHOOL supplemental
plaque shall be rectangular in shape with a black legend and border on a yellow or fluorescent yellow-
green background (same as the S4-3 plaque). The WORK ZONE supplemental plaque shall be
rectangular in shape with a black legend and border on an orange background.
Guidance:
If used, the FINES HIGHER plaque should be located at the beginning of the temporary traffic control zone,
school zone, or other applicable designated zone and just beyond any interchanges, major intersections, or other
major traffic generators.
Agencies should limit the use of the FINES HIGHER plaque to locations where work is actually underway,
or to locations where the roadway, shoulder, or other conditions, including the presence of a school, require a
speed reduction or extra caution on the part of the road user.
Section 2B.18 Location of Speed Limit Signs
Standard:
Speed Limit (R2-1) signs, indicating speed limits for which posting is required by law, shall be located
at the points of change from one speed limit to another.
At the end of the section to which a speed limit applies, a Speed Limit sign showing the next speed
limit shall be installed. Additional Speed Limit signs shall be installed beyond major intersections and at
other locations where it is necessary to remind road users of the speed limit that is applicable.
Speed Limit signs indicating the statutory speed limits shall be installed at entrances to the State and
at jurisdictional boundaries of metropolitan areas.
Section 2B.19 Turn Prohibition Signs (R3-1 through R3-4, and R3-18)
Standard:
Except as noted in the Option, where turns are prohibited, Turn Prohibition signs shall be installed.
Guidance:
Turn Prohibition signs should be placed where they will be most easily seen by road users who might be
intending to turn.
If No Right Turn (R3-1) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be placed either over the
roadway or at a right corner of the intersection.
If No Left Turn (R3-2) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be placed either over the
roadway, at the far left corner of the intersection, on a median, or in conjunction with the STOP sign or YIELD
sign located on the near right corner.
Except as noted in the Option, if NO TURNS (R3-3) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, two signs should be
used, one at a location specified for a No Right Turn sign and one at a location specified for a No Left Turn sign.
If No U-Turn (R3-4) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be used at a location specified for
No Left Turn signs.
If combination No U-Turn/No Left Turn (R3-18) signs (see Figure 2B-3) are used, at least one should be
used at a location specified for No Left Turn signs.
Option:
If signals are present:
A. The No Right Turn sign may be installed adjacent to a signal face viewed by road users in the right lane.
B. The No Left Turn (or No U-Turn or combination No U-Turn/No Left Turn) sign may be installed
adjacent to a signal face viewed by road users in the left lane.
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.17 to 2B.
Page 2B-14 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.19 to 2B.
C. A NO TURNS sign may be placed adjacent to a signal face viewed by all road users on that approach, or
two signs may be used.
If signals are present, an additional Turn Prohibition sign may be ground mounted to supplement the sign
mounted overhead.
Where ONE WAY signs are used (see Section 2B.32), Turn Prohibition signs may be omitted.
When the movement restriction applies during certain time periods only, the following Turn Prohibition
signing alternatives may be used and are listed in order of preference:
A. Changeable message signs, especially at signalized intersections.
B. Permanently mounted signs incorporating a supplementary legend showing the hours and days during
which the prohibition is applicable.
C. Portable signs, installed by proper authority, located off the roadway at each corner of the intersection.
The portable signs are only to be used during the time that the turn prohibition is applicable.
Turn Prohibition signs may be omitted at a ramp entrance to an expressway or a channelized intersection
where the design is such as to indicate clearly the one-way traffic movement on the ramp or turning lane.
If both left turns and U-turns are prohibited, the R3-18 sign may be used instead of separate R3-2 and R3-
signs.
Section 2B.20 Intersection Lane Control Signs (R3-5 through R3-8)
Standard:
Intersection Lane Control signs, if used, shall require road users in certain lanes to turn, shall permit
turns from a lane where such turns would otherwise not be permitted, shall require a road user to stay in
the same lane and proceed straight through an intersection, or shall indicate permitted movements from a
lane.
Intersection Lane Control signs (see Figure 2B-4) shall have three applications:
A. Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7) signs;
B. Optional Movement Lane Control (R3-6) sign; and
C. Advance Intersection Lane Control (R3-8 series) signs.
Guidance:
When Intersection Lane Control signs are mounted overhead, each sign should be placed over the lane or a
projection of the lane to which it applies.
Standard:
Use of an overhead sign for one approach lane shall not require installation of overhead signs for the
other lanes of that approach.
Option:
Where the number of through lanes on an approach is two or less, the Intersection Lane Control signs (R3-5,
R3-6, or R3-8) may be overhead or ground mounted.
Intersection Lane Control signs may be omitted where:
A. Turning bays have been provided by physical construction or pavement markings, and
B. Only the road users using such turning bays are permitted to make a similar turn.
Section 2B.21 Mandatory Movement Lane Control Signs (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7)
Standard:
If used, Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-5, R3-5a, and R3-7) signs (see Figure 2B-4) shall
indicate only those vehicle movements that are required from each lane and shall be located where the
regulation applies. When the mandatory movement applies to lanes exclusively designated for HOV traffic,
the R3-5c supplemental plaque shall be used. When the mandatory movement applies to lanes that are not
HOV facilities, but are lanes exclusively designated for buses and/or taxis, the word message R3-5d and/or
R3-5g supplemental plaques shall be used. The R3-7 word message sign shall be for ground mounting only.
If the R3-5 sign is ground mounted on a multi-lane approach, a supplemental plaque (see Figure 2B-4),
such as LEFT LANE (R3-5b), HOV 2+ (R3-5c), TAXI LANE (R3-5d), CENTER LANE (R3-5e), RIGHT
LANE (R3-5f), BUS LANE (R3-5g), or LEFT 2 LANES, indicating the lane with the appropriate
movement shall be added below.
The Mandatory Movement Lane Control (R3-7) sign shall include the legend RIGHT (LEFT) LANE
MUST TURN RIGHT (LEFT). The Mandatory Movement Lane Control symbol signs (R3-5 and R3-5a)
shall include the legend ONLY.
R3-9h R3-9i
OR
R3-9g
OR
R3-9a R3-9b R3-9d R3-9f
Figure 2B-5. Center and Reversible Lane Control Signs
Page 2B-16 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.22 to 2B.
Optional Movement Lane Control signs shall be used for two or more movements from a specific lane
where a movement, not normally allowed, is permitted.
The Optional Movement Lane Control sign shall not be used alone to effect a turn prohibition.
Option:
The word message OK may be used within the border in combination with the arrow symbols of the R3-
sign.
Section 2B.23 Advance Intersection Lane Control Signs (R3-8 Series)
Option:
Advance Intersection Lane Control (R3-8, R3-8a, and R3-8b) signs (see Figure 2B-4) may be used to
indicate the configuration of all lanes ahead.
The word messages ONLY, OK, THRU, ALL, or HOV 2+ may be used within the border in combination
with the arrow symbols of the R3-8 sign series. The HOV 2+ (R3-5c) supplemental plaque may be installed at
the top outside border of the R3-8 sign over the applicable lane. The diamond symbol may be used instead of
the word message HOV. The minimum allowable vehicle occupancy requirement may vary based on the level
established for a particular facility.
Guidance:
If used, an Advance Intersection Lane Control sign should be placed at an adequate distance in advance of
the intersection so that road users can select the appropriate lane. If used, the Advance Intersection Lane Control
sign should be installed either in advance of the tapers or at the beginning of the turn lane.
Section 2B.24 Two-Way Left Turn Only Signs (R3-9a, R3-9b)
Guidance:
Two-Way Left Turn Only (R3-9a or R3-9b) signs (see Figure 2B-5) should be used in conjunction with the
required pavement markings where a nonreversible lane is reserved for the exclusive use of left-turning vehicles
in either direction and is not used for passing, overtaking, or through travel.
Option:
The ground-mounted R3-9b sign may be used as an alternate to or a supplement to the overhead-mounted
R3-9a sign. The legend BEGIN or END may be used within the border of the main sign itself, or on a plaque
mounted immediately above it.
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.24 to 2B.
Support:
Signing is especially helpful to drivers in areas where the two-way left turn only maneuver is new, in areas
subject to environmental conditions that frequently obscure the pavement markings, and on peripheral streets
with two-way left turn only lanes leading to an extensive system of routes with two-way left turn only lanes.
Section 2B.25 Reversible Lane Control Signs (R3-9d, R3-9f through R3-9i)
Option:
A reversible lane may be used for through traffic (with left turns either permitted or prohibited) in alternating
directions during different periods of the day, and the lane may be used for exclusive left turns in one or both
directions during other periods of the day as well. Reversible Lane Control (R3-9d, R3-9f through R3-9i) signs
(see Figure 2B-5) may either be static type or changeable message type. These signs may be either ground or
overhead mounted.
Standard:
Ground-mounted Reversible Lane Control signs shall be used only as a supplement to overhead signs
or signals. Ground-mounted signs shall be identical in design to the overhead signs and an additional
legend such as CENTER LANE shall be added to the sign (R3-9f) to indicate which lane is controlled. For
both word messages and symbols, this legend shall be at the top of the sign.
Where it is determined by an engineering study that lane-use control signals or physical barriers are
not necessary, the lane shall be controlled by overhead Reversible Lane Control signs (see Figure 2B-6).
Option:
Reversing traffic flow may be controlled with pavement markings and Reversible Lane Control signs
(without the use of lane control signals), when all of the following conditions are met:
A. Only one lane is being reversed.
B. An engineering study indicates that the use of Reversible Lane Control signs alone would result in an
acceptable level of safety and efficiency.
C. There are no unusual or complex operations in the reversible lane pattern.
Standard:
Reversible Lane Control signs shall contain the legend or symbols designating the allowable uses of the
lane and the time periods such uses are allowed. Where symbols and legend are used, their meanings shall
be as shown in Table 2B-2.
Reversible Lane Control signs shall consist of a white background with a black legend and border,
except for the R3-9d sign, where the color red is used.
Symbol signs, such as the R3-9d sign, shall consist of the appropriate symbol in the upper portion of
the sign with the appropriate times of the day and days of the week below it. All times of the day and days
of the week shall be accounted for on the sign to eliminate confusion to the road user.
In situations where more than one message is conveyed to the road user, such as on the R3-9d sign, the
sign legend shall be arranged as follows:
A. The prohibition or restriction message is the primary legend and shall be on the top for word
message signs and to the far left for symbol signs;
B. The permissive use message shall be shown as the second legend; and
C. The OTHER TIMES message shall be shown at the bottom for word message signs and to the far
right for symbol signs.
Option:
The symbol signs may also include a downward pointing arrow with the legend THIS LANE. The term
OTHER TIMES may be used for either the symbol or word message sign.
Standard:
A Reversible Lane Control sign shall be mounted over the center of the lane that is being reversed and
shall be perpendicular to the roadway alignment.
If the vertical or horizontal alignment is curved to the degree that a driver would be unable to see at
least one sign, and preferably two signs, then additional overhead signs shall be installed. The placement
of the signs shall be such that the driver will have a definite indication of the lanes specifically reserved for
use at any given time. Special consideration shall be given to major generators introducing traffic between
the normal sign placement.
2003 Edition Page 2B-
Sect. 2B.25 to 2B.
Transitions at the entry to and exit from a section of roadway with reversible lanes shall be carefully
reviewed, and advance signs shall be installed to notify or warn drivers of the boundaries of the reversible
lane controls. The R3-9g or R3-9h signs shall be used for this purpose.
Option:
More than one sign may be used at the termination of the reversible lane to emphasize the importance of the
message (R3-9i).
Standard:
Flashing beacons, if used to accentuate the overhead Reversible Lane Control signs, shall comply with
the applicable requirements for flashing beacons in Chapter 4K.
When used in conjunction with Reversible Lane Control signs, the Turn Prohibition signs (R3-1 to
R3-4, R3-18) shall be mounted overhead and separate from the Reversible Lane Control signs. The Turn
Prohibition signs shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 2B.19.
Guidance:
For additional emphasis, a supplemental plaque stating the distance of the prohibition, such as NEXT 1.6 km
(NEXT 1 MILE), should be added to the Turn Prohibition signs that are used in conjunction with Reversible
Lane Control signs.
If used, overhead signs should be located at intervals not greater than 400 m (0.25 mi). The bottom of the
overhead Reversible Lane Control signs should not be more than 5.8 m (19 ft) above the pavement grade.
Where more than one sign is used at the termination of a reversible lane, they should be at least 75 m (250 ft)
apart. Longer distances between signs are appropriate for streets with speeds over 60 km/h (35 mph), but the
separation should not exceed 300 m (1,000 ft).
Left-turning vehicles have a significant impact on the safety and efficiency of a reversible lane operation.
If an exclusive left-turn lane or two-way left-turn lane cannot be incorporated into the lane-use pattern for a
particular peak or off-peak period, consideration should be given to prohibiting left turns and U-turns during
that time period.
Section 2B.26 Preferential Only Lane Signs (R3-10 through R3-15)
Support:
Preferential only lanes are lanes designated for special traffic uses such as high-occupancy vehicles (HOVs),
light rail, buses, taxis, or bicycles. Preferential only lane treatments might be as simple as restricting a turning
lane to a certain class of vehicles during peak periods, or as sophisticated as providing a separate roadway system
within a highway corridor for certain vehicles.
Information regarding Preferential Only Lane signs for bicycle lanes is contained in Section 9B.04.
Table 2B-2. Meanings of Symbols and Legends on
Reversible Lane Control Signs
Symbol / Word Message Meaning
Red X on white background. Lane Closed
Upward pointing black arrow on white
background. If left turns are permitted, the arrow
shall be modified to show left / through arrow.
Lane open for through travel and any turns
not otherwise prohibited.
Black two-way left turn arrows on white
background and legend ONLY.
Lane may be used only for left turns in either
direction (i.e., as a two-way left turn lane).
Black single left turn arrow on white
background and legend ONLY.
Lane may be used only for left turns in one
direction (without opposing left turns in the
same lane).
Page 2B-20 2003 Edition
Sect. 2B.
Option:
Preferential only lane assignments may be made on a full-time or part-time basis.
Guidance:
Preferential Only Lane sign spacing should be determined by engineering judgment based on prevailing
speed, block length, distances from adjacent intersections, and other considerations.
Support:
The symbol and word message that appears on a particular Preferential Only Lane sign will vary based on
the specific type of allowed traffic and on other related operational constraints that have been established for a
particular lane, such as an HOV lane, a bus lane, or a taxi lane. Section 2B.27 contains information regarding the
restriction of the use of the diamond symbol to HOV lanes only. The requirements for guide and regulatory signs
in advance of all preferential only lanes on freeways are provided in Section 2E.59.
Standard:
When a preferential only lane is established, the Preferential Only Lane signs (see Figure 2B-7) and
pavement markings (see Sections 3B.22 and 3B.23) for these lanes shall be used to advise road users.
At the end of a preferential only lane, a Lane Ends (R3-12a or R3-15a) sign shall be used.
Guidance:
Ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane (R3-10, R3-11, and R3-12 series) signs should be installed where
preferential only lanes are implemented on freeways, expressways, and conventional roads.
Support:
The sizes for Preferential Only Lane signs will differ to reflect the design speeds for each type of roadway
facility. Table 2B-1 provides sizes for each type of roadway facility.
Guidance:
The size of the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs should remain
consistent to accommodate any manual addition or subtraction of a single line of text for each sign.
Support:
Consistent sign sizes are beneficial for agencies when ordering sign materials, as well as when making text
changes to existing signs if changes occur to operating times or occupancy restrictions in the future. For
example, the R3-11c sign has space for one line located below "24 HOURS" if an agency desires to add
additional information (such as "Mon. – Fri."), yet the R3-11c sign has the same dimensions as the other R3-
series signs.
Guidance:
The decision to use a specific ground-mounted or overhead sign for a preferential only lane should be based
on an engineering study that considers the available space, the existing signs for adjoining general purpose lanes,
roadway and traffic characteristics, the proximity of other overhead signing, the ability to install overhead signs,
and any other unique local factors.
Support:
Figures 2E-46 through 2E-52 show example signing layouts using the R3-10 through R3-15 series signs for
various preferential only lane applications.
Standard:
The R3-10, R3-11, R3-11a, R3-11c, R3-13, R3-13a, R3-14 and R3-14a signs shall be used exclusively
with preferential only lanes for high-occupancy vehicles to indicate the particular occupancy requirement
and time restrictions applying to that lane. The R3-10a, R3-11b, and R3-14b signs shall be used in
situations where a preferential only lane is not an HOV lane, but is designated for use by other types of
vehicles (such as bus and/or taxi use).
When used, the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs shall be
located adjacent to the preferential only lane, and the overhead Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-
14 series) signs shall be mounted directly over the lane.
The legend format of the ground-mounted Preferential Only Lane Operational (R3-11 series) signs
shall have the following sequence:
A. Top Lines: Lanes applicable, such as "RIGHT LANE", "RIGHT 2 LANES", or "THIS LANE" B. Middle Lines: Eligible uses, such as "HOV 2+ ONLY" (or 3+ or 4+), "BUSES ONLY", or other applicable turning movements C. Bottom Lines: Applicable time and day, such as "7 – 9 AM" or "6:30 – 9:30 AM, MON-FRI"
