Question 1

What are the rules for reflective signs?

Accepted Answer

High Intensity or Diamond Grade sheeting is required for all traffic signs. Engineer grade reflective sheeting is acceptable for parking signs and private property signage. These requirements are set by the MUTCD (Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices) to ensure proper nighttime visibility for drivers.

Question 2

How long do traffic signs really last?

Accepted Answer

Longevity depends on climate and sun exposure. Engineer grade signs generally have a service life of at least seven years. High Intensity and Diamond Grade signs can last 12 years or longer. Proper installation and periodic inspection help maximize the useful life of your signage.

Question 3

What liability do I have if my sign is fading and no longer reflective?

Accepted Answer

Public-access lots and roads must follow MUTCD standards and maintain proper retroreflectivity levels. Privately maintained off-street roads are not required to follow these guidelines. Installing MUTCD-compliant signs with the correct reflective sheeting offers legal protection and helps ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians.

Question 4

How deep should I pound in my channel post?

Accepted Answer

Channel posts should be pounded 18" to 30" into the ground, depending on the length of the post and soil conditions. For standard 6-foot posts, 24" is typical. Always ensure the post is plumb and the sign height meets local requirements (usually 7 feet from ground to bottom of sign on roadways).

Question 5

Are there any color restrictions on custom signs?

Accepted Answer

There are no color restrictions on custom signs. Modern printing technology allows us to produce full-color custom designs on sign blanks in various sizes and shapes. However, if your sign needs to meet MUTCD standards for official traffic control, specific color combinations are required (e.g., red for stop/prohibition, green for guide signs).

Question 6

Can "Buckle Up" safety messages be affixed to STOP and YIELD signs under MUTCD?

Accepted Answer

No. Attaching supplemental messages like "Buckle Up" to STOP or YIELD signs violates MUTCD Section 2B.10. The concern is that additional messaging distracts drivers from recognizing and responding to the stop sign itself. Safety messages should be placed on separate sign assemblies.

Question 7

When is Fluorescent Yellow Green required for warning signs?

Accepted Answer

Fluorescent Yellow Green (FYG) is required for school area warning signs, including school zone, school crossing, and school bus stop ahead signs. It is optional for pedestrian and bicycle warning sign applications. The bright FYG color provides enhanced conspicuity during both daytime and nighttime conditions.

Question 8

Can street name signs be installed on the same post as STOP signs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Per MUTCD Section 2A.16, signs may be installed on the same post when they supplement each other or serve related purposes at the same location. Street name signs are commonly mounted above STOP signs at intersections to help drivers identify their location.

Question 9

Must street name sign lettering be all uppercase?

Accepted Answer

No. Mixed case lettering with initial uppercase letters (e.g., "Main Street" instead of "MAIN STREET") is acceptable and in fact recommended. Research shows mixed case lettering improves legibility and increases recognition distance compared to all-uppercase text.

Question 10

Which school crossing sign design is correct — with or without crosswalk lines?

Accepted Answer

The current correct design does not include crosswalk lines under the children's feet. The older version with lines beneath the figures (sign code S2-1) was deleted from the 2000 edition of the MUTCD. If you have older signs with this design, they should be replaced when they reach the end of their service life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Reflectivity & Materials

Installation & Hardware

Custom Signs & Design

MUTCD Regulations

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