This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the R11-3a STREET CLOSED - LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY sign. Use this resource to understand when it is required, how to place it correctly, and how to maintain clear visibility for safe operations.
Street closures that preserve local property access
At the closure point (activity area), typically on a barricade.
Mount at the standard height and setback for the roadway with clear sight lines.
High reflectivity and clear sight lines are essential day and night.
A regulatory sign stating that the street is closed except to local traffic, with the word legend STREET CLOSED / LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY (a distance line is added on the advance version). Through traffic must use a detour; residents, businesses, and deliveries within the closure may proceed.
A regulatory sign stating that the street is closed except to local traffic, with the word legend STREET CLOSED / LOCAL TRAFFIC ONLY (a distance line is added on the advance version). Through traffic must use a detour; residents, businesses, and deliveries within the closure may proceed. In the field, R11-3a Street Closed - Local Traffic Only is typically positioned at the at the closure point (activity area), typically on a barricade. Common deployments include street closures that preserve local property access; advance sign carries a distance line (e.g. X MILES AHEAD); used with detour route markers for through traffic. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
At the closure point (activity area), typically on a barricade.
Typical minimum: 48" × 30".
Used in California where a street is closed to through traffic but local access to properties inside the closure is maintained, typically with a distance legend on the advance sign and detour route markers for through traffic.
Go to California NotesEducational 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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