W21-5a Shoulder Closed
Warns that the shoulder is closed ahead and is not available for stopping, disabled vehicles, or travel through the work area.
- Sign Name
- Shoulder Closed
- MUTCD Code
- W21-5a
- Sign Category
- Warning Signs
Specifications
- Shape
- Diamond
- Color / legend
- Orange background, black legend
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.
Dimensions are side lengths of the diamond, not its corner-to-corner span.
- Layout 130" × 30"
- Layout 236" × 36"
- Layout 348" × 48"
When & Where It's Used
- Shoulder closures for staging, storage, or work space
- Used with channelizing devices closing the shoulder
- Common on freeway and expressway shoulder operations
Placement Context
- Where it sits
- Approach to the activity area.
- CA MUTCD reference
- CA MUTCD 2026 Chapter 6H — TTC Zone Warning Signs
Related Signs
Browse Warning 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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