PEDESTRIAN DETOUR (CALIFORNIA) Sign Requirements
This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the M4-9b(CA) PEDESTRIAN DETOUR (CALIFORNIA) sign. Use this resource to understand when it is required, how to place it correctly, and how to maintain clear visibility for safe operations.
When It Is Used
Accessible pedestrian routing around closures
Where It Applies
Along the detour route at each decision point.
Placement Basics
Mount at the standard height and setback for the roadway with clear sight lines.
Visibility / Reflectivity
High reflectivity and clear sight lines are essential day and night.
1. When a PEDESTRIAN DETOUR (CALIFORNIA) Sign Is Used
The California application of the pedestrian detour marker, used to route pedestrians around sidewalk and crosswalk closures along an accessible alternate path. Official depiction: Caltrans CA Sign Chart, 2014 Revision 3 (Sheet 14). Official title per CA MUTCD Table 6F-101(CA): “Pedestrian Detour (California)” (Section 6F/6P). No standalone Caltrans specification drawing is published for this sign. This is the California version of the federal M4-9 “Detour” family; the federal M4-9 specification is available in this repository.
- Accessible pedestrian routing around closures
- Used with R9-series sidewalk-closure signs
- California right-of-way and encroachment-permit work
2. How and Where It Applies
In the field, M4-9b(CA) Pedestrian Detour (California) is typically positioned at the along the detour route at each decision point. Common deployments include accessible pedestrian routing around closures; used with R9-series sidewalk-closure signs; california right-of-way and encroachment-permit work. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
3. Placement and Application Notes
Position M4-9b(CA) along the detour route at each decision point.
- Place the sign where drivers have a clear, unobstructed view on approach.
- Mount at the standard height and setback from the edge of the traveled way.
- Do not mount with other signs on the same post unless space constraints require it.
4. Standard Sizes and Visibility Considerations
Typical minimum: 24" × 12" (route marker / plaque).
- Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
- Maintain high retroreflectivity for maximum night and adverse-weather visibility.
5. California Notes
California emphasizes maintaining accessible pedestrian access; the pedestrian detour marker guides pedestrians around closures consistent with CA MUTCD and ADA requirements.
Go to California Notes6. Common Field or Planning Mistakes
- No ADA-compliant alternate pedestrian route shown on the TCP.
- Sidewalk closure not signed in advance (cross-here / ahead signs missing).
- Accessible width and surface of the pedestrian detour not noted.
- Barricades and detectable edging not shown at the closure.
Related Resources
View All M-Series 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. Written against California MUTCD 2026 (effective January 18, 2026) and the Federal MUTCD 11th Edition. Official sources last verified June 2026.
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