UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
standards shown in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Placement of all other
signs covered in this pamphlet should conform to the standards in this section, which meet or
exceed the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices guidelines. Whenever practical, a
minimum lateral clearance of (12') from the roadway is recommended for these signs. All
signs less than (12') from the edge of the roadway should have breakaway or yielding sign
supports that comply with state standards and/or are approved by the Federal Highway
Administration.
2.19.3. Visibility. Signs should be placed where they can be clearly seen by the user. Check sight
lines before signs are erected to ensure that traffic control devices, roadway entrances, and exits
are not hidden. Ensure the signs do not block sight distance for drivers at intersections. Place
signs to take advantage of indirect light from existing light sources for good night visibility.
2.19.4. Relationships to Site. Signs should relate well to their sites, that is, they should look good
in relation to the nearby landscape and structures.
2.19.5. Series of Signs. Series of signs requiring driver or pedestrian decisions should be placed
far enough apart to allow enough time for the user to make the required decisions.
2.19.6. Visual Clutter. Take care to avoid visual clutter. No sign should be erected unless the
information it provides is absolutely necessary for directions, identification or customer service.
2.19.7. Lateral Clearance - Rural Signs. In rural or outlying areas, a minimum lateral clearance of
4.0 m (12') from the edge of the traveled way (Figure 2.34) or 1.8 m (6') from the edge of the
paved shoulder or curb (Figure 2.34) is preferred, wherever possible, for all Identification,
Warning, Motivation and Information Signs.
2.19.8. Lateral Clearance - Urban Signs. In urban areas, signs should be placed with minimum
lateral clearances of 1.8 m (6') from the edge of the roadway or paved shoulder and 0.6 m (2')
from the face of any curb (Figure 2.35). A clearance of 0.3 m (1') from the face of the curb is
permissible in urban areas where sidewalk width is limited or where existing poles are close to
the curbs (Figure 2.35).
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