MUTCD Sign ChartMUTCDSignChartA Public Ready Knowledge Resource

W4-5aP No Merge Area (Plaque)

Warns that an entering roadway has an abrupt merge without an acceleration lane.

Sign Name
No Merge Area (Plaque)
MUTCD Code
W4-5aP
Sign Category
Warning Signs

Specifications

Shape
Rectangle
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; drawing sizes alone do not establish a permitted minimum.

  • Official drawing size18" × 24"
  • Official drawing size24" × 30"
View dimensions and source

California Application & Variants

Use below the applicable Merge or Entering Roadway Merge sign. It may also be used below Yield Ahead and/or YIELD at a yield-controlled channelized right turn without an acceleration lane when engineering judgment supports it.

When & Where It's Used

  • Roadway geometry and traffic-control review

Placement Context

Where it sits
Select placement using the actual approach, sight distance, applicable California manual provisions, and responsible agency requirements..
CA MUTCD reference
CA MUTCD 2026 §2C.45

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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