MUTCD Sign ChartMUTCDSignChartA Public Ready Knowledge Resource

M4-8P Detour

Identifies an associated route-sign assembly as a detour. The plaque works with the route number and directional information in the assembly.

Sign Name
Detour
MUTCD Code
M4-8P
Sign Category
Detour Signs

Specifications

Shape
Rectangle (Horizontal)
Color / legend
Orange background, black legend (temporary traffic control); fluorescent pink background for the incident-management variant

Sizes & Dimensions (inches)

These are dimensions shown on the linked layout. Select the required size using the applicable MUTCD and agency requirements; the smallest drawing size is not necessarily the permitted minimum.

  • Layout 112" × 6"
  • Layout 224" × 12"
  • Layout 330" × 15"
View dimensions and source

Placement Context

Where it sits
At the detour decision point or route assembly identified by the design.
CA MUTCD reference
CA MUTCD 2026 Chapter 9D — Bicycle Guide and Service Signs

Educational reference only. This is not an official Caltrans, FHWA, or local agency publication and is not legal or engineering advice. Always verify sign selection, size, placement, spacing, and application against the current CA MUTCD 2026, Caltrans sign specifications, Standard Plans, project documents, and the reviewing agency’s requirements. Local jurisdictions may impose additional requirements, and final selection, placement, and dimensions may require engineering judgment or agency approval. Reference editions: California MUTCD 2026 (effective January 18, 2026) and the Federal MUTCD 11th Edition with Revision 1.

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