PROPOSED RULES
Original Notice.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 05-16-076.
Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Adoption of the 2003 Edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD).
Hearing Location(s): Large Commission Board Room, Washington State Department of Transportation, 310 Maple Park Avenue S.E., Olympia, WA, on October 31, 2005, at 9:00 a.m.
Date of Intended Adoption: October 31, 2005.
Submit Written Comments to: Mike Dornfeld, P.O. Box 47344, Olympia, WA 98504-7344, e-mail dornfem@wsdot.wa.gov, fax (360) 705-6826, by October 21, 2005.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Mike Dornfeld by January [October] 21, 2005, TTY (800) 833-6388 or (360) 705-7288.
Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: To adopt the 2003 Edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The proposed rule adopts and modifies the MUTCD for use in Washington state by modifying chapter 468-95 WAC.
Reasons Supporting Proposal: Federal regulations require the states to adopt the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Adoption of the 2003 Edition of the MUTCD will also bring Washington into compliance with the latest national standards for traffic control devices.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030.
Rule is necessary because of federal law, 23 C.F.R. 655.603.
Name of Proponent: Washington State Department of Transportation, governmental.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting, Implementation and Enforcement: Mike Dornfeld, Olympia, Washington 98504-7344, (360) 705-7288.
No small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW. The adoption of this rule is to meet federal requirements. States are required to adopt the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328. The adoption of this rule is to meet federal requirements. States are required to adopt the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
September 20, 2005
John Conrad
Assistant Secretary
of Transportation
OTS-8333.2
AMENDATORY SECTION(Amending WSR 03-06-053, filed 2/28/03,
effective 3/31/03)
WAC 468-95-010
General.
The ((June 2001 Millennium))
2003 Edition of the Manual on Uniform ((Streets and Highway))
Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways (MUTCD),
published by the Federal Highway Administration and approved
by the Federal Highway Administrator as the national standard
for all highways open to public travel, was duly adopted by
the Washington state secretary of transportation. Revisions
are incorporated into the November 2003 Edition of the MUTCD,
except as may be modified herein, when published by the
Federal Highway Administration. The manual includes in part
many illustrations, some of which depend on color for proper
interpretation. The code reviser has deemed it inexpedient to
convert these regulations and illustrations to the prescribed
form and style of WAC and therefore excludes them from
publication. The document is available for public inspection
at the headquarters office and all region offices of the
Washington state department of transportation. Further, each
city, town, and county engineering office in the state will
have a copy of the MUTCD, with revisions and modifications for
Washington, in its possession.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-010, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03; 91-02-008 (Order 127), § 468-95-010, filed 12/21/90, effective 1/21/91. Statutory Authority: RCW 47.36.030. 87-05-043 (Order 108), § 468-95-010, filed 2/18/87; 85-23-041 (Order 98), § 468-95-010, filed 11/18/85; 85-01-056 (Order 93), § 468-95-010, filed 12/17/84.]
Pavement word and symbol markings - The Department of Transportation's Standard Plans illustrate the typical size and spacing of lane-use arrows for two-way left-turn lanes. Compliance with the Standard Plans shall be achieved when lane-use arrows, in existence in two-way left-turn lanes on December 31, 2004, have completed their life cycle and require replacement.
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The STOP sign shall be installed on the right side of the approach to which it applies. When the STOP AHEAD sign is installed at this required location, see Section 2C.29 and Table 2C-4 to determine if a STOP AHEAD sign is required in advance of the STOP sign.
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Option:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) sign (see Figure 2B-2) may be used to remind road users of laws regarding right of way at an unsignalized pedestrian crossing. The legend STATE LAW may be shown at the top of the sign if applicable. The legend STOP FOR may be used in conjunction with the appropriate symbol.
Guidance:
If an island (see Chapter 3G) is available, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign, if used, should be placed on the island.
Standard:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall not be used at signalized locations.
The STOP FOR legend shall only be used in States where the State law specifically requires that a driver stop for a pedestrian in a crosswalk.
If used, the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign shall have a black legend (except for the red STOP sign symbol) and border on either a white and/or fluorescent yellow-green background.
If the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign is placed in the roadway, the sign support shall comply with the breakaway requirements of the latest edition of AASHTO's "Specification for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaries, and Traffic Signals" (see Page i).
Support:
The provisions of Section 2A.18 concerning mounting height are not applicable for the In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign.
Option:
The In-Street Pedestrian Crossing sign may be used seasonally to prevent damage in winter because of plowing operations, and may be removed at night where pedestrian activity is minimal.
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Standard:
Speed Limits (R2-1) signs (see Figure 2B-1) shall display the speed limit established by statute; or, by an ordinance or regulation adopted by the authorized agency, based on the engineering study or traffic investigation required by RCW 46.61.405, 46.61.410, and 46.61.415. The speed limit shall be set in multiples of 10 km/h or 5 mph.
Guidance:
Authorized agencies should reevaluate speed limits on segments of their roadways that have undergone a significant change in roadway characteristics or surrounding land use since the last review.
No more than three speed limits should be posted on any one Speed Limit sign or assembly.
When evaluating speed limits, the following factors should be considered:
A. The 85th percentile speed of vehicles traveling on the road;
B. Road characteristics, shoulder condition, grade, alignment, and sight distance;
C. The pace speed;
D. Roadside development and environment;
E. Parking practices and pedestrian activity;
F. Reported crash experience for at least a 12 month period; and
G. Other factors such as route development or comprehensive plans.
Option:
Two types of Speed Limit signs may be used: One to designate passenger car speeds, including any nighttime information or minimum speed that may apply; and, the other to show any special speed limits for trucks and other vehicles.
A changeable message sign that changes the speed limit for traffic and ambient conditions may be installed provided that the appropriate speed limit is shown at the proper times.
A changeable message sign that displays to drivers the speed at which they are traveling may be installed in conjunction with a Speed Limit sign.
Guidance:
If a changeable message sign displaying approach speeds is installed, the legend YOUR SPEED XX km/h (mph) or such similar legend should be shown. The color of the changeable message legend should be a yellow legend on a black background or the reverse of these colors.
Support:
Advisory Speed signs are discussed in Sections 2C.36 and 2C.46. Temporary Traffic Control Zone Speed signs are discussed in Part 6.
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The NO TURN ON RED sign (R10-11a, R10-11b) shall be used to prohibit any right turn on red; or a left turn on red from a one-way or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-120, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
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A Cross Road (W2-1) symbol sign, Side Road (W2-2 or W2-3) symbol sign, T (W2-4) symbol sign, or Y (W2-5) symbol sign (see Figure 2C-8) may be installed in advance of an intersection to indicate the intersection's presence and the possibility of turning traffic.
The Circular Intersection (W2-6) symbol sign may be installed in advance of a circular intersection. The Circular Intersection symbol sign may be accompanied by a ROUNDABOUT or a TRAFFIC CIRCLE educational plaque, as applicable.
The relative importance of the intersecting roadways may be shown by different widths of lines in the symbol.
The advance street name plaque (see Section 2C.49) may be installed above or below an Intersection Warning sign.
Add the alternate message ROUNDABOUT to the TRAFFIC CIRCLE plaque (W16-12p) in MUTCD Figure 2C-8.
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If the W4-4p plaque is used with a STOP sign, it shall be installed below the STOP sign.
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(1) There shall be at least 500,000 square feet of leasable retail floor space;
(2) There shall be at least three major department stores owned by national or regional retail chain organizations;
(3) The center shall be located within one highway mile of the state highway;
(4) The center shall generate at least 9,000 daily one-way vehicle trips to the center;
(5) Sufficient sign space as specified in the MUTCD shall be available for installation;
(6) Supplemental follow-through directional signing is required on county roads or city streets at key motorist decision points, if the center is not clearly visible from the point of exit from the state highway. The required supplemental follow-through directional signs shall be installed by the city or county prior to the installation of signs on the state highway;
(7) Signing on the state highway to a county road or city street that bears the name of the regional shopping center fulfills the statutory requirements for signing to those centers;
(8) The costs of materials and labor for fabricating, installing, and maintaining regional shopping center signs shall be borne by the center.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-140, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
In urban or suburban areas, especially where Advanced Street name signs are not used, the use of overhead Street Name signs should be considered. If overhead Street Name signs are used, the lettering should be at least 300 mm (12 in) high in capital letters, or 300 mm (12 in) upper-case with 225 mm (9 in) lower case letters where posted speeds are 40 mph or greater. For roads with posted speeds less than 40 mph, lettering should be 8 inch capital letters or greater. New construction should include the larger size letters for overhead signs. Internally illuminated signs may use smaller letter size.
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A wildlife viewing sign shall be square shaped with a white binocular symbol and border on a brown background.
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Chapter 2J, Event Signs, Banners, and Decorations
Pursuant to RCW 47.36.030(3) and 47.42.020(8), the department may permit signs, banners, or decorations visible to state highways that promote a local agency sponsored event in accordance with the applicable following criteria:
Standard:
A. Signs, banners, and decorations shall not interfere or obstruct the view of any traffic control device or impair the operation of transportation management systems or street illumination.
B. The sign, banner, or decoration shall not include commercial advertising as determined by the department.
C. Signs, banners, or decorations shall be mounted not less than 20 vertical feet above the roadway surface measured at any point.
D. Signs, banners, or decorations shall not be visible from Interstate highways, or other state highways having a posted speed limit of 50 miles per hour or greater.
E. Signs, banners, or decorations shall be installed no more than 30 days before and removed no more than 3 days after the local agency sponsored event.
Option:
Along multi-lane state highways a sign, banner, or decoration may be mounted vertically on luminaire posts subject to meeting wind load requirements specified by the department.
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On two-way, two- or three-lane roadways where centerline markings are installed, no-passing zones shall be established at vertical curves and other locations where an engineering study indicates that passing must be prohibited because of inadequate sight distances or other special conditions.
On two-way, two- and three-lane roadways where centerline markings are installed, no-passing zones shall be established at horizontal curves where an engineering study indicates passing must be prohibited because of inadequate sight distances or other special conditions. A January 17, 2007, compliance date is established.
On three-lane roadways where the direction of travel in the center lane transitions from one direction to the other, a no-passing buffer zone shall be provided in the center lane as shown in Figure 3B-4. A lane transition shall be provided at each end of the buffer zone.
The buffer zone shall be a median island ((consisting of
a lane transition in each direction and a minimum of a)) that
is at least 15 m (50 ft) ((buffer zone)) in length. ((In
areas where no-passing zones are required because of limited
passing sight distances, the buffer zone shall be the
distances between the beginnings of the no-passing zones in
each direction.))
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-150, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
If a continuous median island formed by pavement markings
separating travel in opposite directions is used, the island
may be formed by two single normal solid yellow lines, a
combination of two single normal solid yellow lines with
yellow crosshatching between the lines with a total width not
less than eighteen inches, two sets of double solid yellow
lines, or a solid yellow line not less than eighteen inches in
width. All other markings in the median island area shall be
yellow, except crosswalk markings, which shall be white (see
((MUTCD)) Section 3B.17).
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-160, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Edge lines shall be used on all interstate highways,
((on)) rural multilane divided highways, ((on)) all principal
arterials and minor arterials within urbanized areas, except
when curb or sidewalk exists, and may be used on other classes
of roads. A jurisdiction((s)) shall conform to these
requirements at such time that it undertakes to renew or
install permanent markings on new or existing roadways. The
edge lines shall be white, except that the edge lines shall be
yellow on the left edge of each roadway of divided streets and
highways and one-way roadway in the direction of travel((, the
lines shall be yellow)).
Edge line markings shall also be placed on paved rural arterials with a traveled way of 6.1 m (20 ft) or more in width and an ADT of 6,000 or greater vehicles per day.
These standards shall be in effect, as provided in this section, unless the legislative authority of the local governmental body finds that special circumstances exist affecting vehicle and pedestrian safety that warrant a site-specific variance.
((Pursuant to RCW 47.36.280, the first paragraph under
Option of MUTCD Section 3B.13 is revised to read as follows:
Raised pavement markers may also be used to supplement other markings for channelizing islands or approaches to other objects. The general use of raised pavement markers along right edge lines is strongly discouraged because they can cause steering difficulties and make bicyclists lose control of their vehicles. Raised or recessed pavement markers may be used along right edge lines on the taper in lane transition sections, on approaches to objects and within channelization at intersections. Raised or recessed pavement markers can only be used along right edge lines at other locations where an engineering study has determined the markers are essential to preserving pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle safety. At the initiation of the engineering study, local bicycling organizations, the regional member of the state bicycling advisory committee, or the WSDOT bicycle and pedestrian program manager shall be notified of the study for review and comment. Positioning and spacing of the markers in such cases must be determined by engineering judgment taking into consideration their effect on bicycle, pedestrian, and motor vehicle safety. Other applications of raised or recessed pavement markers along right edge lines of arterials are considered to be nonconforming with this section. Cities and counties shall remove nonconforming raised pavement markings at the time that they prepare to resurface roadways, or earlier at their option.
These standards shall be in effect, as provided in this section, unless the legislative authority of the local governmental body finds that special circumstances exist affecting vehicle and pedestrian safety that warrant a site-specific variance.))
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-190, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Raised pavement markers may also be used to supplement other markings for channelizing islands or approaches to other objects. The general use of raised pavement markers along right edge lines is strongly discouraged because the markers can cause steering difficulties and make bicyclists lose control of their vehicles. Raised or recessed pavement markers may be used along right edge lines on the taper in lane transition sections, on approaches to objects, and within channelization at intersections. Raised or recessed pavement markers can only be used along right edge lines at other locations where an engineering study has determined that the markers are essential to preserving pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle safety. At the initiation of the engineering study, local bicycling organizations, the regional member of the state bicycle advisory committee, or the WSDOT bicycle and pedestrian program manager shall be notified of the study for review and comment. Positioning and spacing of the markers in such cases must be determined by engineering judgment taking into consideration their effect on bicycle, pedestrian, and motor vehicle safety; and, where used, are spaced closely enough (no greater than 3 m (10 ft) apart) to approximate the appearance of a solid line. Other applications of raised or recessed pavement markers along right edge lines of arterials are considered to be nonconforming with this section. Cities and counties shall remove their nonconforming raised or recessed pavement markers at the time that they prepare to resurface roadways, or earlier at their option.
These standards shall be in effect, as provided in this section, unless the legislative authority of the local governmental body finds that special circumstances exist affecting vehicle and pedestrian safety that warrant a site-specific variance.
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If raised pavement markers are substituted for broken
line markings, a group of 3 to 5 markers equally spaced at no
greater than N/8 (see Section ((3A.06)) 3B-11), or at the
one-third points of the line segment if N is other than 12 m
(40 ft), with a least one retroreflective or internally
illuminated marker used per group.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-210, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
((Stop or yield lines, where used, should ordinarily be
placed four feet in advance of and parallel to the nearest
crosswalk line. In the absence of a marked crosswalk, the
stop or yield line should be placed at the desired stopping
point, in no case less than 4 feet from the nearest edge of
intersecting roadway.
Stop lines at midblock signalized locations should be placed at least 40 feet in advance of the nearest signal indication (see MUTCD Section 4D.15).)) If used, stop and yield lines should be placed a minimum of 1.2 m (4 ft) in advance of the nearest crosswalk line at controlled intersections, except for yield lines at roundabout intersections as provided for in Section 3B.24 and at midblock crosswalks. In the absence of a marked crosswalk, the stop line or yield line should be placed at the desired stopping or yielding point, in no case less than 4 feet from the nearest edge of the intersecting roadway. Stop lines should be placed to allow sufficient sight distance to all other approaches to an intersection.
If used at an unsignalized midblock crosswalk, yield lines should be placed adjacent to the Yield Here to Pedestrians sign located 6.1 to 15 m (20 to 50 ft) in advance of the nearest crosswalk line, and parking should be prohibited in the area between the yield line and the crosswalk (see Figure 3B-15). Stop lines at midblock signalized locations should be placed at least 12 m (40 ft) in advance of the nearest signal indication (see Section 4D.15).
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-220, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Guidance:
Preferential lane word and symbol markings may be offset up to a maximum of 1'0" from the center of the preferred-use lane to avoid vehicle wheel paths.
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Vehicle operators facing a steady circular red signal may, after stopping, proceed to make a right turn from a one-way or two-way street into a two-way street or into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the right turn; or a left turn from a one-way or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn; unless a sign posted by a competent authority prohibits such movement. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall remain stopped to allow other vehicles lawfully within or approaching the intersection control area to complete their movements. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall also remain stopped for pedestrians who are lawfully within the intersection control area.
Pursuant to RCW 46.61.055, amend the Standard of MUTCD Section 4D.04, item C.2, to read:
Vehicle operators facing a steady red arrow indication may, after stopping, proceed to make a right turn from a one-way or two-way street or into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the right turn, or a left turn from a one-way street or two-way street into a one-way street carrying traffic in the direction of the left turn, unless a sign posted by a competent authority prohibits such movement. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall remain stopped to allow other vehicles lawfully within or approaching the intersection control area to complete their movements. Vehicle operators planning to make such turns shall also remain stopped for pedestrians who are lawfully within the intersection control area.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-250, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
A steady RED ARROW signal indication shall be displayed when it is intended to prohibit vehicular traffic from entering the intersection or other controlled area to make the indicated turn when regulatory signing is in place prohibiting such movement. Pedestrians directed by a pedestrian signal head may enter the intersection or other controlled area.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-260, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
A steady YELLOW X or a flashing RED X means that a driver should prepare to vacate, in a safe manner, the lane over which the signal is located because a lane control change is being made, and to avoid occupying that lane when a steady RED X is displayed.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-270, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
A moving condition in one direction shall be terminated either by the immediate display of a RED X signal indication or by a YELLOW X signal indication followed by a RED X signal indication or a flashing RED X indication followed by a RED X indication.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-280, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Additional traffic control devices and criteria contained in other Parts of the Manual may be considered for use on low-volume roads.
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Oversized sign sizes may be used where engineering judgment indicates a need based on high vehicle operating speeds, driver expectancy, traffic operations, or roadway conditions.
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STOP (R1-1) and YIELD (R1-2) signs (see Figure 5B-1) may be considered for use on low-volume roads where engineering judgment or study, consistent with the provisions of Sections 2B.04 to 2B.10, indicates that either of the following conditions applies:
A. An intersection of a less-important road with a main road where application of the normal right-of-way rule might not be readily apparent.
B. An intersection that has restricted sight distance for the prevailing vehicle speeds.
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A ONE LANE BRIDGE (W5-3) sign (see Figure 5C-2) may be used on low-volume two-way roadways in advance of any bridge or culvert:
A. Having a clear roadway width of less than 4.9 m (16 ft); or
B. Having a clear roadway width of less than 5.5 m (18 ft) when commercial vehicles constitute a high proportion of the traffic; or
C. Having a clear roadway width of 5.5 m (18 ft) or less where the approach sight distance is limited on the approach to the structure.
Additional warning may be provided on the approach to a one lane bridge or culvert by the use of object markers and/or delineators.
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Vehicular Traffic signs (see Figure 5C-2) may be used to alert road users to frequent unexpected entries into the roadway by trucks, bicyclists, farm vehicles, fire trucks, and other vehicles. Such signs may be used only at locations where the road user's sight distance is restricted or the activity would be unexpected.
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Centerline markings may be used on paved low-volume roads where engineering judgment or an engineering study indicates a need for them.
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Edgeline Markings may be considered for use on paved low-volume roads based on engineering judgment or an engineering study.
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Delineators may be used on low-volume roads based on engineering judgment, such as for curves, T-intersections, and abrupt changes in the roadway width. In addition, they may be used to mark other minor roads entering the low-volume road.
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The end of a low-volume road may be marked with an end-of-roadway marker in conformance with Section 3C.04.
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Pavement markings at highway-rail grade crossings may be used on paved low-volume roads, if they are already deployed at most other highway-rail grade crossings within the immediate vicinity, or when the roadway has centerline markings.
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Pavement markings may be considered for temporary traffic control zones on paved low-volume roads, especially roads that had existing pavement markings or that have a surfaced detour or temporary roadway.
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| Freeways & Expressways | 55/70 MPH | 1500' ± or per MUTCD |
| Rural Highways | 60/65 MPH | (( |
| Rural Roads | 45/55 MPH | 500' ± |
| Rural Roads & Urban Arterials | 35/40 MPH | 350' ± |
| Rural Roads, Urban
(( |
25/30 MPH | 200' ± (2) |
| Urban Streets | 25 MPH or less | 100' ± (2) |
(2) This spacing may be reduced in urban areas to fit roadway conditions.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-300, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Signs mounted on barricades and barricade/sign combinations shall be crashworthy, in accordance with NCHRP 350, by December 31, 2007.
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The plaque may supplement primary condition warning signs.
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The sign shall be used where Section 1-07.23(1) of the Washington state department of transportation's standard specifications require warning signs to alert drivers about an elevation differential between lanes or between the outside lane and the shoulder.
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((Temporary pavement markings are those that may be used
until it is practical and possible to install permanent
pavement markings that meet MUTCD standards. Normally, it
should not be necessary to leave temporary pavement markings
in place for more than 2 weeks, except on roadways being paved
with bituminous surface treatment (BST) and having traffic
volumes under 2,000 ADT. All temporary pavement markings,
including pavement markings for no-passing zones, shall
conform to the requirements of Sections 3A and 3B.
Amend the first Guidance of MUTCD Section 6F.66 to read:
For temporary situations of 14 calendar days or less, for a two-lane or three-lane road, no-passing zones may be identified by using W 14-3 No Passing Zone signs (see Section 2C.32) rather than pavement markings (see Section 3B.02). Signs may also be used in lieu of pavement markings on low-volume roads for longer periods, when this practice is in keeping with the state's or other highway agency's policy. These signs should be placed in accordance with Sections 2B.24 and 2B.25.)) Standard:
All temporary pavement markings shall conform to the requirements of Chapters 3A and 3B. All temporary broken-line pavement markings shall use the same cycle length as permanent markings and be at least 0.6 m (2 ft) long.
Support:
Temporary pavement markings are those that may be used until it is practical and possible to install permanent markings.
Option:
Half-cycle lengths with a minimum of 0.6 m (2 ft) stripes may be used on roadways with severed curvature (see Section 3A.05) for center lines in passing zones and for lane lines.
For temporary situations, for a two-lane or three-lane road, no-passing zones may be identified by using DO NOT PASS (R4-1), PASS WITH CARE (R4-2), and NO PASSING ZONE (W14-3) signs rather than pavement markings.
Guidance:
When used, the DO NOT PASS, PASS WITH CARE, and NO PASSING ZONE signs should be placed in accordance with Sections 2B.29, 2B.30, and 2C.35.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-310, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
Sign Spacing(1)
| Freeways & Expressways | 55/70 MPH | 1500' ± or per MUTCD |
| Rural Highways | 60/65 MPH | 800' ± |
| Rural Roads | 45/55 MPH | 500' ± |
| Rural Roads & Urban Arterials | 35/40 MPH | 350' ± |
| Rural Roads, Urban Arterials, Residential, Business Districts | 25/30 MPH | 200' ± (2) |
| Urban Streets | 25 MPH or less | 100' ± (2) |
| (1)All spacing may be adjusted to accommodate interchange ramps, at-grade intersections, and driveways. | |
| (2)This spacing may be reduced in urban areas to fit roadway conditions. |
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A 300 mm (12 in) reduced size in-street School Advance Warning (S1-1) sign (see Figure 7B-4), installed in compliance with the mounting height and breakaway requirements for In-Street Pedestrian Crossing (R1-6a) signs (see Section 2B.12), may be used in advance of a school crossing to supplement the ground-mounted school warning signs. A 300 mm x 150 mm (12 in x 6 in) reduced size AHEAD (W16-9p) plaque may be mounted below the reduced size in-street School Advance Warning (S1-1) sign.
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((The reduced school speed zone shall begin at a point 90
m (300 ft) in advance of the crosswalk and end at a point 90 m
(300 ft) after the crosswalk. These distances may be modified
to fit the field conditions by regulation.)) Applicable to
state highways, county roads, or city streets, the reduced
school or playground speed zone shall extend for 300 feet in
either direction from the marked crosswalk when the marked
crosswalk is fully posted with standard school speed limit
signs or standard playground speed limit signs.
Applicable to county roads or city streets, the school or playground speed zone may extend up to 300 feet from the border of the school or playground property when fully posted with standard school speed limit signs or standard playground speed limit signs. However, the speed zone may only include the area consistent with active school or playground use.
No school or playground speed zone may extend less than 300 feet from a marked school or playground crosswalk, but may extend by traffic regulation beyond 300 feet based on a traffic and engineering investigation.
Pursuant to RCW 46.61.440, the speed limit sign distance note in Figure 7B-3 is replaced with:
See WAC 468-95-330 for school or playground speed limit placement distances.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-330, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
The School Speed Limit assembly shall be either a fixed-message sign assembly or a changeable message sign. The fixed-message School Speed Limit assembly shall consist of a top plaque (S4-3) with the legend SCHOOL, a Speed Limit (R2-1) sign, and a bottom plaque (S4-1, S4-2, S4-4, S4-6, or S4-501) indicating the specific periods of the day and/or days of the week that the special school speed limit is in effect (see Figure 7B-1).
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-340, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 34.05 RCW and RCW 47.36.030. 03-06-053, § 468-95-370, filed 2/28/03, effective 3/31/03.]
The following sections of the Washington Administrative Code are repealed:
| WAC 468-95-110 | Parking for the disabled in urban areas. |
| WAC 468-95-130 | High occupancy vehicle signs. |
| WAC 468-95-170 | White lane line markings. |
| WAC 468-95-240 | Preferential lane longitudinal markings for motorized vehicles. |
| WAC 468-95-315 | Motorcycle construction warning signs. |
| WAC 468-95-320 | School advance warning sign (S-1). |
| WAC 468-95-400 | Sign borders. |