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Use of Traffic Control Devices

Traffic control devices need to be designed and implemented based on laws, rules, and standards and on engineering judgment. Washington State uses the 2009 Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), as modified by Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 468-95 as the standard for placement of traffic control devices. The Traffic Services Manager provides individual assistance and recommendations on issues regarding traffic control devices.

MUTCD Update:
On May 14, 2012 the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) published two final rules to make things easier for local and state agencies. These rules resulted in two revisions to the 2009 Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Revision 1 refers to the use of engineering judgement and studies. Revision 2 refers to compliance dates and historic street name signs. The revisions take effect on June 13, 2012.

General Information

General Information about traffic control devices can be found in MUTCD Parts 1, 5A, 7A, 8A, and 9A

Traffic Signs

Traffic signs provide regulations, warnings, and guidance to the traveling public, including motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians.

General Information

Sign Types

Regulatory signs: MUTCD Parts 2B, 5B, 5F, 7B, 8B, and 9B

Warning signs: MUTCD Parts 2C, 5C, 5F, 7B, 8B, and 9B

WSDOT has a ball bank indicator that local agencies may borrow to assist in determining speeds for warning signs.
Contact the Local Agency Traffic Services Specialist.

Guide signs (Conventional Roads):
MUTCD Parts 2D, 5D, and 9B

Guide signs (Freeways and Expressways):
MUTCD Parts 2E, 5D, and 9B

Specific Service signs: MUTCD Part 2J

Tourist-Oriented Directional signs:
MUTCD Part 2K

Recreational and Cultural Interest Area signs: MUTCD Part 2M

Emergency Management signs: MUTCD Part 2N

Emergency Notification signs: MUTCD Part 8B

Temporary Traffic Control Devices

Temporary traffic control devices guide motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians through roadway construction zones.

Additional information can be found in MUTCD Parts 5G and 6 

Also learn about work zone safety and mobility.

Traffic Laws, Rules, and Standards

Traffic laws, rules, standards, and best practices for cities and counties.

Markings



General Information

Parts of the MUTCD

Pavement and Curb Markings: MUTCD Parts 3B, 5F, 7C, 8B, and 9C

Object Markers: MUTCD Parts 2C, 9B

Delineators: MUTCD Part 3F

Colored Pavements: MUTCD Part 3G

Barricades and Channelizing Devices: MUTCD Part 2B, 5C, and 6F

Islands: MUTCD Part 3I

Traffic Signals

Traffic signals are a vital tool used to safely and efficiently manage motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic.

Additional information can be found in MUTCD Parts 4, 5F, 8C, and 9D

Roundabouts

A modern roundabout is a circular intersection where drivers travel counterclockwise around a center island. There are no traffic signals or stop signs in a modern roundabout. Drivers yield at entry to traffic in the roundabout, then enter the intersection and exit at their desired street.

Want to learn more? 

 

Traffic Calming

There are temporary and permanent methods to deter cut through traffic through a neighorhood and slow motor vehicles down. These methods make conditions better for other roadway users and for neighborhood residents and buisnesses.

WSDOT has a radar speed gun that local agencies may borrow to conduct speed studies. Contact the Local Agency Traffic Services Specialist.

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