This guide summarizes the MUTCD requirements and practical application guidance for the RS-147 BOAT MOTOR sign. Use this resource to understand when it is required, how to place it correctly, and how to maintain clear visibility for safe operations.
Applied per the CA MUTCD and Caltrans sign specifications
On the approach to the recreational or cultural interest area the sign identifies, per CA MUTCD Chapter 2M.
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.
The RS-147 Boat Motor is a California MUTCD recreational & cultural interest sign. FHWA has not yet issued SHS spec drawings for the RS series; the official depiction is MUTCD Chapter 2M (Figure 2M-9), where the symbol is captioned “Boat Motor”. This symbol is shown in the 2009 MUTCD Chapter 2M but was not carried into the 11th Edition (2023) Chapter 2M figures.
The RS-147 Boat Motor is a California MUTCD recreational & cultural interest sign. FHWA has not yet issued SHS spec drawings for the RS series; the official depiction is MUTCD Chapter 2M (Figure 2M-9), where the symbol is captioned “Boat Motor”. This symbol is shown in the 2009 MUTCD Chapter 2M but was not carried into the 11th Edition (2023) Chapter 2M figures. In the field, RS-147 Boat Motor is typically positioned at the advance warning area, ahead of the work. Common deployments include applied per the CA MUTCD and Caltrans sign specifications; selected and sized for the roadway type and setting; coordinated with the overall signing plan and permit. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
On the approach to the recreational or cultural interest area the sign identifies, per CA MUTCD Chapter 2M.
Typical minimum: 24" × 24" minimum for symbol signs; larger sizes on higher-speed roadways.
Used in California per the CA MUTCD; the official depiction is MUTCD Chapter 2M (Figure 2M-9) — FHWA has not issued a standalone SHS drawing for the RS series. Confirm size, retroreflective sheeting, and placement for the condition and the reviewing agency. Dimensions are not asserted here.
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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