MUTCD minimums establish a means to improve the nighttime visibility of traffic signs to promote safety, enhance traffic operations and facilitate comfort for drivers of all ages and abilities. (1)
MUTCD standards for sign retro reflectivity or illumination have remained essentially unchanged for 45 years.(2) In the 1980's, the FHWA began nighttime sign visibility research and in 1993 Congress directed the FHWA to revise the MUTCD to include minimum levels.(12) That ruling has produced minimums for critical traffic signs with a table of specific requirements and implementation (referenced below).
FHWA Standard
One or more of the following assessment or management methods shall be used to maintain sign retro reflectivity above the minimum levels:
Visual nighttime inspections
Measured retro reflectivity
Expected life
Blanket replacement
Control signs
See Getting Started for more information on these assessment/management methods.
Minimum retro reflectivity standards also apply to Private Roads
Effective January 17, 2007, MUTCD regulations apply to "all roads open to public travel."
Includes toll roads and roads within shopping centers, parking lots, airports, sports arenas, and other similar business and recreation facilities that are privately owned but where the public is allowed to travel without access restrictions.
Owners or parties responsible for such private roads have two years from the date of the ruling (January 17, 2007) to bring traffic control devices into compliance with the MUTCD and other applicable State Manuals.
Source:(13)
The FHWA-published table of minimum retro reflectivity values establishes standards of compliance. These values are considered minimums. The agency may decide to use higher values based on their own replacement criteria.
Determines the ratio of retro reflective contrast and sign size ("Conditions"). For example, white-on-red retro reflective signs such as Stop or Do Not Enter signs require a 3:1 (white:red) contrast ratio. When the contrast ratio is lower, the sign should be replaced.
Provides some exclusions for signs such as Parking, Walking, Adopt-A-Highway, Bike way, etc.)
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