W3-9 Traffic Using Shoulder
Warns entering traffic that vehicles may be traveling on the shoulder.
- Sign Name
- Traffic Using Shoulder
- MUTCD Code
- W3-9
- Sign Category
- Warning Signs
Specifications
- Shape
- Rectangle (Vertical)
- Color / legend
- Black legend and border on yellow background
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 verified against the official drawing. Diamond dimensions are nominal side lengths. Select the required application size from the California manual, not simply the smallest available drawing.
- Official drawing size36" × 48"
- Official drawing size48" × 60"
California Application & Variants
Use on the relevant ramp approach where part-time shoulder travel is allowed, or on an applicable stop- or yield-controlled conventional-road approach. The displayed hours and days are examples; use the actual shoulder-operation schedule. California also provides BUSES USING SHOULDER W130(CA); the two legends are not interchangeable for every operation.
When & Where It's Used
- Roadway geometry and approach-warning review
Placement Context
- Where it sits
- On the relevant ramp approach where traffic using the shoulder approaches; see section 2G.22 and Figure 2G-32..
- CA MUTCD reference
- CA MUTCD 2026 §2G.22
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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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