Traffic Sign Policy 

Keeping the Roads Safe

The purpose of this policy is to establish uniformity in the installation and maintenance of traffic signs on the St. Louis County highway system. This policy recognizes that the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MnMUTCD) is the standard for all traffic control devices on all roads in Minnesota and therefore, all traffic control devices on the St. Louis County highway system shall conform to its standards and specifications as specified in Minnesota Statute 169.06.

This policy officially recognizes the rule in the MnMUTCD that establishes minimum retroreflectivity levels for traffic signs and describes how St. Louis County achieves compliance.

It is in the interest of St. Louis County and the public to prevent the excessive use of traffic signs on the County highway system. A conservative use of traffic signs reduces maintenance costs and improves the effectiveness of those remaining signs. Limiting the excessive use of traffic signs fulfills demonstrated needs, champions a command of attention, reduces clutter that impedes the conveyance of a clear and simple meaning, fosters respect by road users, and reduces conflicts that may restrict time for a proper response which cumulatively improves traffic safety for all users and pursues the goals of the Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths partnership in St. Louis County.

This policy provides standards and guidance for the St. Louis County Public Works staff to judiciously install and maintain traffic signs. All traffic signs on the St. Louis County highway system shall conform to the MnMUTCD. Traffic signs not explicitly required to be installed by the MnMUTCD shall not be installed on the St. Louis County highway system unless otherwise specified in the policy, or authorized by the Traffic Engineer or County Engineer.

St. Louis County shall use the Blanket Replacement method for maintaining minimum retroreflectivity levels for traffic signs. The MnMUTCD, Section 2A.9, describes this method as follows:

"All signs in an area/corridor, or of a given type, should be replaced at specified intervals. This eliminates the need to assess retroreflectivity or track the life of individual signs. The replacement interval is based on the expected sign life, compared to the minimum levels, for the shortest life materials used on the affected signs."

Highway segments that are repaved or reconstructed should have priority for traffic sign replacement. The Traffic Engineer and Sign Supervisor should prioritize other highway segments based upon the need, budget, or other special circumstances.