Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 05:42, 19 December 2024

Revision as of 04:45, 11 January 2025

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| website = {{URL| https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/}}

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The '''''Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways''''' (usually referred to as the '''''Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices''''', abbreviated '''MUTCD''') is a document issued by the [[Federal Highway Administration]] (FHWA) of the [[United States Department of Transportation]] (USDOT) to specify the standards by which [[traffic sign]]s, [[road surface marking]]s, and [[traffic light|signals]] are designed, installed, and used. InFederal thelaw [[Unitedrequires States]],compliance by all traffic control devicessigns mustand legallysurface conformmarkings toon theseroads standards."open Theto manualpublic istravel", used byincluding state, local, and localprivately agenciesowned asroads well(but asnot privateparking constructionlots firmsor togated ensurecommunities).<ref thatname="FAQ">[https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/knowledge/faqs/faq_general.htm theFrequently trafficAsked controlQuestions devices- theyGeneral useQuestions conform toon the national standard.MUTCD]</ref> While some state agencies have developed their own sets of standards, including their own MUTCDs, these must substantially conform to the federal MUTCD.

The MUTCD defines the content and placement of traffic signs, while design specifications are detailed in a companion volume, '''''Standard Highway Signs and Markings'''''. This manual defines the specific dimensions, colors, and fonts of each sign and road marking. The National Committee on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (NCUTCD) advises the FHWA on additions, revisions, and changes to the MUTCD.

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* [[Texas Department of Transportation]]: ''[[Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices]]'' (TMUTCD)

* [[Utah Department of Transportation]]: ''[[Utah Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices]]'' (Utah MUTCD)

== Enforcement ==

Federal funding is tied to compliance and serves as an enforcement mechanism for state and local governments.<ref>{{USCode|23|109}}(d)</ref><ref name="FAQ" /> For private property owners, the FHA recommends "encouragement" rather than punishment.<ref name="FAQ" /> The use of non-compliant devices can also create liability in [[tort]] lawsuits for private owners and some governments.<ref name="FAQ" />

== Other jurisdictions ==