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R9-3 No Pedestrian Crossing (symbol) — official FHWA layout

NO PEDESTRIAN CROSSING (SYMBOL) Sign Requirements

This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the R9-3 NO PEDESTRIAN CROSSING (SYMBOL) 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

Posted where a sidewalk or crosswalk is closed to pedestrians

Where It Applies

At the point where the regulation applies, per CA MUTCD Part 2B.

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 NO PEDESTRIAN CROSSING (SYMBOL) Sign Is Used

The R9-3 No Pedestrians sign prohibits pedestrian travel along or across the roadway at that location. It uses the pedestrian symbol within a red circle and diagonal slash, and is typically posted where a sidewalk or crossing is closed and pedestrians must use an alternate route.

  • Posted where a sidewalk or crosswalk is closed to pedestrians
  • Paired with a signed, ADA-compliant alternate pedestrian route
  • Used at work-zone approaches where pedestrian travel is prohibited

2. How and Where It Applies

In the field, R9-3 No Pedestrian Crossing (symbol) is typically positioned at the at and in advance of the pedestrian/sidewalk closure. Common deployments include posted where a sidewalk or crosswalk is closed to pedestrians; paired with a signed, ADA-compliant alternate pedestrian route; used at work-zone approaches where pedestrian travel is prohibited. 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 R9-3 at the point where the regulation applies, per CA MUTCD Part 2B.

  • 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" × 24"; 30" × 30" where greater emphasis is needed.

  • Choose size based on roadway speed, sight distance, and mounting location.
  • Maintain high retroreflectivity for maximum night and adverse-weather visibility.

5. California Notes

R9-3 No Pedestrians is used in California per the CA MUTCD to close a sidewalk or crossing to pedestrians, usually paired with signing that directs pedestrians to an accessible alternate route. Confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, placement, and spacing against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.

Go to California Notes

6. 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 R-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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