Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices

Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

March 2023
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© The State of Queensland (Department of Transport and Main Roads) 2023.

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While every care has been taken in preparing this publication, the State of Queensland accepts no
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Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023
About this document
This document sets out the numbering system for signs. It also explains the basic elements of signs
including shape, colour, lettering and dimensions.

For details regarding traffic signs only used in Queensland, refer:

http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-standards-publications/TC-signs.

References to this website appear throughout this document. This reference is repeated in sections
and clauses where Queensland signs are used in addition to those stated in the Standard (for
example, refer to Clause 3.4.2).

How to use this document

This document is designed to be read and applied together with AS 1742.1-2021 Manual of Uniform
Traffic Control Devices Part 1 (AS 1742.1-2021). You must have access to the Australian Standard to
understand what applies in Queensland.

This document:

• sets out how AS 1742.1-2021 applies in Queensland

• has precedence over AS 1742.1-2021 when applied in Queensland

• has the same section and clause numbering and headings as AS 1742.1-2021.

The following table summarises the relationship between AS 1742.1-2021 and this document:

Applicability Meaning
Accepted The Australian Standard section or clause is accepted.
Accepted, with Part or all of the section or clause has been accepted with additions, deletions
amendments or differences.
New There is no equivalent section or clause in the Australian Standard.
Not accepted The Australian Standard section or clause is not accepted.

References
The following references apply when reading AS 1742.1-2021.

Reference to… Means

AS 1742.1-2021 AS 1742.1-2021, as amended by this document
For example, a reference to AS 1742.1-2021 means you must refer to the
Australian Standard Part 1, and Part 1 of the Queensland Manual of Uniform
Traffic Control Devices (Queensland MUTCD).
Throughout AS 1742.1-2021, references are made to other parts of the
Australian Standards (for example, when reading Part 1 you may be referred to
Part 3 for further information.) In this case, you must refer to the equivalent Part
within the Queensland MUTCD first. Check the applicability of the equivalent
Part in the Queensland MUTCD before referring to the referenced Australian
Standard Part.
QGTM Queensland Guide to Traffic Management
QGTTM Queensland Guide to Temporary Traffic Management

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 i
 Reference to… Means
Queensland (Q) The TC signs are a collection of non-standard traffic control (TC) signs that have
series / Traffic been 'officially approved' as required by the Transport Operations (Road Use
Control (TC) Management) Act 1995. Included in this register are the MUTCD Q-series signs.
signs
TRUM Traffic and Road Use Management manual

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 ii
Relationship table
Section Clause Description Applicability
1 Scope and general
1.1 Scope Accepted
1.2 Normative references Accepted, with amendments
1.3 Terms and definitions Accepted
1.3.1 May Accepted with amendments
1.3.2 Shall Accepted with amendments
1.3.3 Should Accepted, with amendments
1.3.4 Traffic control devices Accepted
1.3.5 Official Traffic Sign New
1.3.6 Running lane New
1.3.7 Travelled path New
1.3.8 Registered Professional Engineer of New
Queensland (RPEQ)
1.3.9 Innovative treatments New
1.4 Classification of signs Accepted
1.5 Number of signs and sign components
1.5.1 Signs Accepted
1.5.2 Symbols for tourist service signs Accepted
1.6 Basic elements of signs
1.6.1 General Accepted
1.6.2 Shape Accepted
1.6.3 Colour Accepted
1.6.4 Lettering Accepted
1.6.5 Symbols Accepted
1.6.6 Reflectorization and illumination
1.6.6.1 General Accepted
1.6.6.2 Means of illumination Accepted
1.6.6.3 Means of reflectorization Accepted
1.7 Sign size Accepted, with amendments
1.8 Non-standard signs Accepted, with amendments
1.9 Responsibility and authority for installation Accepted, with amendments
on public roads
1.10 Private roads Accepted
1.11 Variable message signs New

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 i
 Section Clause Description Applicability
1.12 Uniformity of location New
1.12.1 General New
1.12.2 Longitudinal placement New
1.12.3 Lateral placement and mounting height New
1.12.3.1 General New
1.12.3.2 Lateral placement – rural New
1.12.3.3 Lateral placement – urban New
1.12.3.4 Mounting height – rural New
1.12.3.5 Mounting height – urban New
1.12.3.6 Overhead mounting New
1.12.4 Overhead signs New
1.12.5 Installation New
1.12.5.1 Side mounted signs New
1.12.5.2 Overhead signs New
1.12.5.3 Sign orientation New
1.12.5.4 Sign installation New
1.13 Trials of traffic control devices New
1.14 Variation of treatments and Registered New
Professional Engineer of Queensland
certification
2 Regulatory signs
2.1 General Accepted
2.2 Sign function Accepted
2.3 Shape, colour and message Accepted
2.4 Index of regulatory signs
2.4.1 Movement series – R1 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.2 Direction series – R2 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.3 Pedestrian series – R3 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.4 Speed series – R4 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.5 Parking series – R5 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.6 Miscellaneous series – R6 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.7 Exclusive-use lane series – R7 Accepted
2.4.8 Bicycle / pedestrian series – R8 Accepted
2.4.9 Supplementary plates for general use – R9 Accepted, with amendments
2.4.10 Railway crossing flashing signal assembly – New
RX-5, RX-11

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 ii
 Section Clause Description Applicability
3 Warning signs
3.1 General Accepted
3.2 Sign function Accepted
3.3 Shape, colour and message Accepted, with amendments
3.4 Index of warning signs
3.4.1 Alignment series – W1 Accepted
3.4.2 Intersection series – W2 Accepted, with amendments
3.4.3 Advance warning of traffic control device Accepted, with amendments
series – W3
3.4.4 Road width, low and narrow clearance Accepted
series – W4
3.4.5 Road obstacle series – W5 Accepted, with amendments
3.4.6 Pedestrian, bicycle and school series – W6 Accepted, with amendments
3.4.7 Railway crossing series – W7 Accepted, with amendments
3.4.8 Supplementary plate series – W8 Accepted, with amendments
3.4.9 Modified intersection series – W9 Accepted
4 Guide signs
4.1 General Accepted
4.2 Classification and numbering Accepted
4.3 Basic design
4.3.1 Shape Accepted
4.3.2 Colour Accepted
4.4 Index of guide signs
4.4.1 Advance direction series – G1 Accepted
4.4.2 Major intersection direction (Type 1) Accepted
series – G2
4.4.3 Minor intersection direction (Type 2) and Accepted, with amendments
(Type 3) series – G3
4.4.4 Reassurance direction series – G4 Accepted
4.4.5 Street name and pedestrian direction Accepted
series – G5
4.4.6 Geographical feature series – G6 Accepted
4.4.7 Service series – G7
4.4.7.1 General Accepted
4.4.7.2 Symbols for services signs – GE6 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.8 Route marker series – G8 Accepted
4.4.9 Traffic instruction series – G9 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.10 Kilometre posts – G10 Accepted

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 iii
 Section Clause Description Applicability
4.4.11 Tourist series – G11
4.4.11.1 General Accepted, with amendments
4.4.11.2 Symbols for tourist signs Accepted
4.4.12 Expressway direction series – GE
4.4.12.1 Expressway advance direction series – GE1 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.12.2 Expressway exit direction series – GE2 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.12.3 Expressway reassurance direction Accepted, with amendments
series – GE4
4.4.12.4 Expressway information series – GE6 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.12.5 Expressway service series – GE7 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.12.6 Expressway traffic instruction series – GE9 Accepted, with amendments
4.4.12.7 Expressway tourist series – GE11 Accepted, with amendments
5 Temporary signs
5.1 General Accepted
5.2 Sign function Accepted
5.3 Basic design
5.3.1 Shape Accepted
5.3.2 Colour Accepted
5.4 Index of signs for works on roads and
temporary hazards
5.4.1 Advance series – T1 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.2 Position series – T2 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.3 Road condition series – T3 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.4 Special hazard series – T4 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.5 Traffic diversion series – T5 Accepted
5.4.6 Vehicle mounted series – T6 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.7 Hand banner series – T7 Accepted, with amendments
5.4.8 Pedestrian series – T8 Accepted
5.4.9 Electronic series New
5.4.10 Multi-message series New
6 Hazard markers
6.1 General Accepted
6.2 Function Accepted
6.3 Basic design Accepted
6.4 Index of hazard markers Accepted, with amendments

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 iv
 Section Clause Description Applicability
7 Multi-message signs
7.1 Advance signs – TM1 Accepted
7.2 Position signs – TM2 Accepted
7.3 Road condition signs – TM3 Accepted
7.4 Special hazard signs – TM4 Accepted
7.5 Traffic diversion signs – TM5 Accepted
7.6 Pedestrian and cyclist signs – TM8 Accepted
7.7 Event signs – TM9 Accepted
7.8 Lane status signs – TM10 Accepted
7.9 Temporary regulatory signs – RM Accepted
7.10 Temporary warning signs – WM Accepted
7.11 Temporary direction signs – GM Accepted
8 Target boards for signs New
8.1 Introduction New
8.2 Size and colour New
8.3 Installation of target boards New
8.4 Removal of target boards New
8.5 Approval of target boards New
Appendices
A Description and use of the letters and numerals Accepted
(normative)
B Erection and removal of regulatory traffic control devices New
on roads controlled by Department of Transport and
Main Roads
B1 General New
B2 Example procedures for the erection or New
removal of permanent regulatory
signs / devices (that is, for other than
roadworks purposes)
B3 Example procedures for variable speed limit New
and lane control signs
C Application of warrants and guidelines New

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 v
Contents

About this document...............................................................................................................................i

How to use this document ......................................................................................................................i
References ...............................................................................................................................................i
Relationship table ....................................................................................................................................i
1 Scope and general .........................................................................................................................1
1.2 Normative references ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Terms and definitions ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.3.1 May .................................................................................................................................1
1.3.2 Shall ................................................................................................................................1
1.3.3 Should ............................................................................................................................1
1.3.5 Official Traffic Sign .........................................................................................................1
1.3.6 Running lane ..................................................................................................................1
1.3.7 Travelled path .................................................................................................................1
1.3.8 Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) ...........................................2
1.3.9 Innovative treatments .....................................................................................................2
1.7 Sign size ......................................................................................................................................... 2
1.8 Non-standard signs ......................................................................................................................... 3
1.9 Responsibility and authority for installation on public roads ........................................................... 3
1.11 Variable message signs .................................................................................................................. 3
1.12 Uniformity of location ...................................................................................................................... 4
1.12.1 General ...........................................................................................................................4
1.12.2 Longitudinal placement ..................................................................................................4
1.12.3 Lateral placement and mounting height .........................................................................6
1.12.4 Overhead signs ..............................................................................................................8
1.12.5 Installation ......................................................................................................................9
1.13 Trials of traffic control devices ...................................................................................................... 11
1.14 Variation to treatments and Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland certification ........ 11
2 Regulatory signs ......................................................................................................................... 12
2.4 Index of regulatory signs ............................................................................................................... 12
2.4.1 Movement series – R1 ................................................................................................ 12
2.4.2 Direction series – R2 ................................................................................................... 12
2.4.3 Pedestrian series – R3 ................................................................................................ 13
2.4.4 Speed series – R4 ....................................................................................................... 14
2.4.5 Parking series – R5 ..................................................................................................... 15
2.4.6 Miscellaneous series – R6 .......................................................................................... 16
2.4.9 Supplementary plates for general use – R9 ................................................................ 17
2.4.10 Railway crossing flashing signal assembly – RX-5, RX-11 ......................................... 17
3 Warning signs ............................................................................................................................. 18
3.3 Shape, colour and message ......................................................................................................... 18
3.4 Index of warning signs .................................................................................................................. 18
3.4.2 Intersection series – W2 .............................................................................................. 18
3.4.3 Advance warning of traffic control device series – W3................................................ 19
3.4.5 Road obstacle series – W5 ......................................................................................... 19
3.4.6 Pedestrian, bicycle and school series – W6 ................................................................ 20
3.4.7 Railway crossing series – W7 ..................................................................................... 21
3.4.8 Supplementary plate series – W8 ............................................................................... 23

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 vi
4 Guide signs ................................................................................................................................. 24
4.4 Index of guide signs ...................................................................................................................... 24
4.4.3 Minor intersection direction (Type 2) and (Type 3) series – G3 .................................. 24
4.4.7 Service series – G7 ..................................................................................................... 24
4.4.9 Traffic instruction series – G9...................................................................................... 26
4.4.11 Tourist Series – G11.................................................................................................... 28
4.4.12 Expressway direction series – GE............................................................................... 28
5 Temporary signs ......................................................................................................................... 31
5.4 Index of signs for works on roads and temporary hazards ........................................................... 31
5.4.1 Advance series – T1 .................................................................................................... 31
5.4.2 Position series – T2 ..................................................................................................... 32
5.4.3 Road condition series – T3 .......................................................................................... 33
5.4.4 Special hazard series – T4 .......................................................................................... 33
5.4.6 Vehicle mounted series – T6 ....................................................................................... 33
5.4.7 Hand banner series ..................................................................................................... 34
5.4.9 Electronic series .......................................................................................................... 34
5.4.10 Multi-message series................................................................................................... 35
6 Hazard markers ........................................................................................................................... 35
6.4 Index of hazard markers ............................................................................................................... 35
8 Target boards for signs .............................................................................................................. 35
8.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 35
8.2 Size and colour ............................................................................................................................. 36
8.3 Installation of target boards .......................................................................................................... 38
8.4 Removal of target boards ............................................................................................................. 38
8.5 Approval of target boards for signs ............................................................................................... 38
Appendices .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Appendix B – Erection and removal of regulatory traffic control devices on roads controlled by
Department of Transport and Main Roads........................................................................................ 39
B1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 39
B2 Example procedures for the erection or removal of permanent regulatory signs / devices (that is,
for other than roadworks purposes) ...................................................................................................... 39
B3 Example procedures for variable speed limit and lane control signs ........................................... 39
Appendix C – Application of warrants and guidelines- ................................................................... 40

Tables
Table 1.12.2 – Location of warning signs in advance of a hazard (previously Table 1.3)....................... 6

Table 8.2: Applications of signing target boards ................................................................................... 36

Figures
Figure 1.12.2 – Advance distance dimensions (previously Figure 1)...................................................... 5

Figure 1.12.4 – Lateral clearance and mounting height (previously Figure 2) ........................................ 8

Figure 1.12.5.4 – Method of avoiding specular reflection on a road sign (previously Figure 3) ........... 10

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 vii
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1 Scope and general

1.2 Normative references

Addition

The following referenced documents also apply in Queensland:

• AS 4852.1 Variable Message Signs – Fixed Signs

• AS 4852.2 Variable Message Signs – Portable Signs

For details regarding traffic signs only used in Queensland, refer:

http://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/business-industry/Technical-standards-publications/TC-signs

1.3 Terms and definitions

1.3.1 May

Addition

Indicates the existence of an option. Where the word 'may' is used, it indicates that use of the device
is conditional, or optional. Usually, no specific requirement for design or application is intended.

1.3.2 Shall

Addition

Indicates that a statement is mandatory. Where certain requirements in the design or application of the
device are described with the 'shall' stipulation, it is mandatory that, when an installation is made,
these requirements be met.

1.3.3 Should

Addition

Indicates a recommendation. Where the word ‘should’ is used, it is considered to be recommended

usage, but not mandatory. Any recommendation that is not applied must be based on sound traffic
engineering judgement and documented.

1.3.5 Official Traffic Sign

New

A traffic control device in relation to which the methods, standards and procedures are prescribed in
this Manual or are approved by the Director-General, Transport and Main Roads.

1.3.6 Running lane

New

A portion of the roadway allotted for the use of a single line of vehicles.

1.3.7 Travelled path

New

The part of the roadway which is made available to vehicles and which may comprise of one or more
traffic lanes.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 1
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1.3.8 Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ)

New

A person who is registered as a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) under the
Professional Engineers Act 2002 (Qld) with the Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland.

1.3.9 Innovative treatments

New

Innovative treatments that provide improved safety, efficiency and/or value-for-money outcomes are
encouraged. Such treatments may include:

a) innovative use of current devices

b) alternative device layouts using existing and/or improve devices, and/or

c) new devices or practices.

New or improved devices, treatments, or practices require approval by the Department of Transport
and Main Roads (see Clause 1.14 for guidance about variations to optimal treatments) prior to their
use or adoption.

For trials of new or innovative traffic control devices, treatments or practices, a submission in
accordance with the requirements of Clause 1.13 shall be submitted to
[email protected].

1.7 Sign size

Addition

Unless special uses for some or all of the various sizes are specified in the text accompanying a
particular sign, the following general principles should be observed when selecting sign size:

a) For regulatory, warning and traffic instructions, the smallest designated available size should
normally be used:

i. only where the 85th percentile approach speed is less than 70 km/h

ii. where prominence or conspicuity of the sign is not affected by competing visual stimuli,
and

iii. where lateral displacement of the sign from the driver's path is not excessive.

b) Progressively larger signs in these categories should be used:

i. as approach speeds become higher

ii. where a greater need exists for sign prominence due either to competing visual stimuli or
the need to emphasise the message, or

iii. where there is excessive lateral displacement of the sign.

The largest available sizes should be used on freeways.

Where one sign supplements another, the two signs should be the same width. With the exception of
the Times of Operation supplementary plate (R9-1), this means that the same size designation; that is,
A, B, C and so on, should be used for both signs. When the Times of Operation supplementary

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 2
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

plate (R9-1) is used with Bus, Truck or Bicycle Lane (R7-1) signs, the former should be one size
designation smaller than the lane sign so that the widths are equal.

1.8 Non-standard signs

Addition

Authorities responsible for the erection of signs are not encouraged to develop signs for their own
particular use; however, there may be instances where no suitable standard sign exists. In such
cases, the following procedures will apply to requests for special non-standard signs:

• a statement giving the detailed nature of the problem

• a description of the proposed sign, how it was developed, the manner in which it deviates from
the Manual, and how it is expected to be an improvement over the existing standard

• an illustration of the proposed sign, taking into account the shape, colours, reflectorisation,
size and series of letters, size of sign and legend.

Any sign developed in this manner should comply with the design requirements specified in this
Manual for the particular sign classification.

Once the design of a non-standard sign has been determined, it shall be approved by the
Director-General, Transport and Main Roads as an Official Traffic Sign prior to erection on a road.

Guidance on the trial application of traffic control devices in a manner contrary to the criteria outlined
in this Manual is provided in Clause 1.13.

For details regarding traffic signs developed specifically for use in Queensland, refer to TC signs.

1.9 Responsibility and authority for installation on public roads

Addition

The Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (Qld) provides that Official Traffic Signs
shall be installed only by the authority of the Director-General, Transport and Main Roads or a local
government. The Act also provides that any such sign shall be installed in accordance with the
methods, standards and procedures prescribed in this Manual, or other duly approved documents.

1.11 Variable message signs

New

Variable Message Signs (VMS) are designed to have one or more messages that may be displayed or
deleted as required. Such a sign may be changed manually, by remote control or by automatic
controls that can ‘sense’ the conditions that require special sign messages.

VMS shall comply with the following standards:

• AS 4852.1 Variable Message Signs – Fixed Signs.

• AS 4852.2 Variable Message Signs – Portable Signs.

It is essential that variable message signs comply with the principles established in this Manual and, to
the extent practicable, with the design requirements and applications prescribed herein.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 3
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1.12 Uniformity of location

1.12.1 General

New

Signs are normally erected on the left side of the roadway.

In special circumstances, signs may be duplicated on the right side or mounted over the roadway.

Signs may be duplicated on the right side of the roadway where:

a) the road is a multilane road

b) the road is one way or median divided, and/or

c) other contributing factors require additional presentation of road signs to approaching traffic,
such as reduced visibility at or near curves.

Care is needed in locating signs to ensure that they do not obscure each other or otherwise generally
obscure visibility of approaching traffic, pedestrians or cyclists, particularly at intersections. If the sign
is located in an exposed position, consideration may need to be given to the use of a frangible or
break-away type construction, or other means of safety protection for the road user at the sign
supports (see Clause 1.12.5).

In addition to the principles set out in Clause 1.12.2 and Clause 1.12.3, principles which apply to the
individual sign categories and to particular situations are given in the relevant clauses in this Manual.

Traffic control devices shall not be installed within the clearance for electrical infrastructure. Minimum
clearances are defined in the Queensland Electrical Safety Regulation 2013.

Minimum clearances are summarised in Transport and Main Roads Standard Drawing SD1333.

1.12.2 Longitudinal placement

New

The longitudinal placement of certain signs is fixed by the nature of their message or their
characteristic use. Special care is required when siting such signs to ensure that they are prominently
displayed to approaching drivers or other road users.

Signs that give advance warning or information shall be located sufficiently in advance to enable the
driver to react appropriately. Guidance on advance distances, shown in each of the relevant
illustrations in this Standard as Dimensions A and B, is given in Table 1.12.2 (previously Table 1.3).

These dimensions are illustrated in Figure 1.12.2 (previously Figure 1) and are applied as follows:

a) Dimension A: the primary advance warning distance to a hazard or action point from a single
advance sign or the last of a series of advance signs

b) Dimension B: the separation between successive advance signs where there are two or more.

Values for Dimension A in the distance ranges given for each speed range in Table 1.12.2 (previously
Table 1.3) are intended to be applied generally in accordance with the speed at the location
concerned: that is, longer distances towards the higher end of each speed range, but with some
flexibility to optimise the longitudinal positioning of the sign.

Values for Dimension B are intended to be regarded as minimal but should never exceed the lowest
value of A in the same speed range.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 4
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Generally, there should be not more than one sign of a particular type on each post, except where one
sign supplements another. Where it becomes necessary to convey two or more different messages at
the one location, separate signs located a minimum of 0.6V m apart (where V is the 85th percentile
speed in km/h) should be used. For guide signs on freeways and other high-speed roads,
considerably greater distance may be required.

Parking control signs are erected at the extremities of the restriction indicated, unless regulations
permit otherwise, and intermediate signs shall be provided where extremity signs are more than
75 m apart. Where two or more different types of control operate along a common section of roadway,
all controls shall be included in every sign (for example, clearway panels shall be included in every
parking control sign along a clearway). In areas of intense parking demands, statutory restrictions (for
example, close to intersections) may also require signing.

Figure 1.12.2 – Advance distance dimensions (previously Figure 1)

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 5
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Table 1.12.2 – Location of warning signs in advance of a hazard (previously Table 1.3)

V85, km/h
Dimension Situation Typical examples
< 75 75 – 90 > 90
Dimension A i. Must or may 80–120 120–180 180–250 W3-2 Give Way Sign Ahead
need to stop W3-1 Stop sign Ahead
W2-3 T junction (sign on
minor road)
W5-7 FLOODWAY
W4-8 LOW CLEARANCE
__m
ii. Significant 60–80 80–120 120–180 Signs in the Turn Sign Zone
speed in Part 2
reduction Figure 4.5
required
W5-20 Slippery
W2-7 Roundabout ahead
iii. Low to 40–60 60–80 80–120 Signs in the Curve Sign
moderate Zone in Part 2
speed Figure 4.5
reduction
W5-3 Aircraft
required – or
no speed W4-4 Divided Road
reduction Intersection warning signs
located on straight main road
W4-6 End Divided Road
Dimension B Position of any 50 60 70
additional
warning sign in
advance of
sign at
Dimension A

NOTE: Values for Dimensions A and B in this table are to be used unless a different value is specified elsewhere
in this Standard in a particular case.

1.12.3 Lateral placement and mounting height

1.12.3.1 General

New

The following are general rules for lateral location of roadside signs and overhead sign structure
supports, and for mounting heights of roadside and overhead signs. The lateral placement shall be
measured from the edge of the sign nearest the road, and the height from the underside of the sign or
the lowest sign in an assembly of signs.

The requirements apply to signs of a permanent nature and include signs for roadworks and special
purposes where these are mounted on posts set into the ground. Any variation in these requirements
for a particular sign is given in the Clause relating to that sign.

There may, however, be exceptions where conditions do not permit these rules to be applied. In these
cases, placement or height is adjusted to meet the special conditions; for example, mounting height of
a sign may be increased or decreased to avoid obstructing sight distance at an intersection. Lateral

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 6
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

clearance and mounting height details for various situations are shown in Figure 1.12.4 (previously
Figure 2).

1.12.3.2 Lateral placement – rural

New

On unkerbed roads in rural areas, the sign shall be at least 600 mm clear of the outer edge of road
shoulder, line of guideposts or face of guardrail. The clearance should not be less than 2 m nor more
than 5 m from the edge of the travelled way, except for large guide signs on expressways where
greater clearances may be required in line with clear zone requirements.

1.12.3.3 Lateral placement – urban

New

On kerbed roads in urban areas, signs should be located back from the face of the kerb not less than
300 mm. Where mountable or semi-mountable kerbs are used – for example, on traffic
islands – minimum clearance should be 500 mm. On urban roads which are unkerbed, bicycle paths
and joint-use paths or on certain arterial roads designed for express traffic movement, the distances
given in Clause 1.12.3.2 may be more appropriate. Placing signs on traffic islands or median ends in
or near an intersection where they might cause intersection sight distance problems should be
avoided. Where this cannot be avoided, special attention should be given to their positioning and
mounting height.

1.12.3.4 Mounting height – rural

New

In rural areas, roadside signs should be mounted clear of roadside vegetation and clearly visible under
headlight illumination by night. The height of the sign should normally be not less than 1.5 m above
the nearest edge of travelled path, except that parking control signs should be mounted 2 m above the
footpath or 2.2 m above the road surface (as appropriate). The mounting height for fingerboards and
intersection direction signs should be increased to 2 m.

1.12.3.5 Mounting height – urban

New

In urban areas on kerbed roads, bicycle paths or joint-use paths, the sign should be mounted a
minimum of 2 m above the top of the kerb to prevent obstruction to occasional pedestrians, or to
reduce interference from parked vehicles. Where neither pedestrians nor parked vehicles have to be
considered – for example, on a traffic island or median – the mounting height given in Clause 1.12.3.4
may be more appropriate.

Signs that may obscure sight distance – for example, on a median on the approach to an intersection
– may need to be height adjusted so that road users can see under or over them. Lowering signs may
have maintenance implications and may leave insufficient vertical space to fit the signs. Signs that
overhang a footway or cycle path shall have a minimum height of 2.5 m above the level of the footway
or cycle path.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 7
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1.12.3.6 Overhead mounting

New

Overhead signs should be mounted a minimum of 5.3 m above the highest level of the travelled path;
this is particularly important if there is no alternative route for occasional high loads. Mounting height
may be reduced to 4.6 m if the sign projects over a shoulder or lane which is used only for parking or
emergency stopping. The greater height is preferred, where possible.

Where an allowance is made for pavement resurfacing or strengthening, a minimum mounting height
of 5.5 m should be provided except on high clearance routes where at least 6.0 m is provided. The
mounting height should be increased to 6.0 m for signs on expressways, and to 6.5 m for high
clearance routes. The greater heights are preferred, where possible.

1.12.4 Overhead signs

New

Overhead signs provide means of displaying essential traffic information on wide multilane roads,
where some degree of lane use control is required, or where space at the roadside is insufficient to
accommodate a road sign. It may also be the only means of providing adequate viewing distance.

Figure 1.12.4 – Lateral clearance and mounting height (previously Figure 2)

NOTES:
1. At traffic islands additional clearance may be required to allow for overhang of turning vehicles.
2. Minimum clearance applies to lighting brackets or other fixtures when these project below the sign.
3. Clearance behind safety barrier to take account of dynamic deflection of barrier and body roll of high
vehicles in a collision, see AS/NZS 3845.
4. For cantilever or butterfly mounted signs, desirably the centre of the sign should be located above the
kerb or edge line.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 8
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Overhead signs may also be desirable where the environmental background would detract from the
essential message of a roadside sign. Composition and speed of traffic may also be influencing
factors.

On expressways, overhead signs are especially suitable for complex or closely spaced interchanges,
multi-lane exits, or exits which leave the freeway from the right-hand side.

Overhead signs are generally of the directional and lane control types, and are generally supported on
cantilever, butterfly or gantry structures, or on overbridges.

1.12.5 Installation

1.12.5.1 Side mounted signs

New

Signposts of strength equivalent to a standard 60.3 x 2.9 C350 grade (50LT) steel pipe or less are not
considered to be a roadside hazard on higher speed roads. Signs supported by these will not
generally require protection. Where signposts of greater strength are used, consideration may need to
be given to the use of breakaway supports unless the sign is located:

a) behind guard fence or safety barrier

b) on a cut batter slope 2:1 or steeper, with the base of the post not less than 1.2 m vertically
above the shoulder or verge level

c) in any other location where it is unlikely that the posts could be struck by an out-of-control
vehicle

d) more than 9 m offset from the nearest edge of the running lane.

In addition to any other mounting height requirements, signs on breakaway supports should be
mounted a minimum of 2.2 m above the level of the top of the lower base plate of the sign support, to
allow an impacting light vehicle to run under the sign.

1.12.5.2 Overhead signs

New

Supports for overhead signs cannot be made breakaway and must be either protected or located so
that they will not be a hazard to out-of-control vehicles. Supports located as indicated in sub-paras (a)
to (d) of Clause 1.12.5.1 would meet this requirement. In addition, the following should be observed:

a) Supports for large butterfly or cantilever signs should not be located in the gore of exit ramps
unless protected by a properly designed crash cushion. Alternative forms of sign structure
which avoid this – for example, gantry in lieu of butterfly – are preferred.

b) Where supports for overhead signs are located in medians, they should be shielded by a
safety barrier and satisfactory terminal treatments. On high volume freeways, as the median
width becomes progressively narrower, crash cushions may be required.

The vertical axis of overhead signs should be tilted back 5° to the approach line of sight on level and
downgrades. On uphill grades, the sign should be installed with tilt back at 5° to the line of sight;
however, it important to ensure that no reflection problems occur over the range of approach
distances. This assists in optimising retroreflectivity at the legibility distance and reducing excessive
brightness up close, so the driver perceives the brightness as constant rather than increasing.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 9
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1.12.5.3 Sign orientation

New

Signs should be oriented at approximately right angles to, and facing, the traffic they are intended to
serve. At curved alignments, the angle of placement should be determined by the course of
approaching traffic rather than by the road edge at the point where the sign is located.

In rural areas, night-time specular reflection from traffic signs can be troublesome. To eliminate or
minimise the effect, signs should be set at angles so as to face slightly away from the beam direction
of headlights from approaching vehicles.

On a straight length of road, the horizontal axis of a sign should be set at an angle of five degrees
away from the normal to the left-side edge of the roadway on the approach
side (see Figure 1.12.5.4(a) (previously Figure 3(a)). On some bends and complicated winding
alignments, compromise solutions may have to be adopted but generally it will be adequate on a
right-hand bend for a sign to be set parallel to the normal to the left-hand edge of the roadway at the
point where the sign is erected. Signs sited on the left side of the road at left-hand bends should be
set at an angle of five degrees away from the normal to a line joining the edge of the roadway at the
sign with a point on the same edge of roadway 200 m in advance of the sign (see Figure 1.12.5.4(b)
(previously Figure 3(b)).

1.12.5.4 Sign installation

New

Further information relating to the size and number of posts is available in the Design Guide for
Roadside Signs published on the Department of Transport and Main Roads website.

Figure 1.12.5.4 – Method of avoiding specular reflection on a road sign (previously Figure 3)

NOTES:
1. Sign is rotated away from the normal approximately five degrees or one tenth of the width of the sign.
2. On RIGHT-HAND curves the sign is placed ON the normal to the road at the sign position.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 10
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

1.13 Trials of traffic control devices

New

Trials of new traffic control devices or the application of existing devices in a manner contrary to the
criteria in this Manual can be undertaken in accordance with this Clause.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads may issue an ‘approved notice’ under Section 166(2) of
the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 to install and maintain a traffic control
device for trial purposes. An application for a trial must encompass sufficient information to allow an
informed decision to be made, including:

a) the purpose of the trial

b) the place where the trial is to be held

c) the period of the trial (not exceeding two years)

d) the terms and conditions of the trial, and

e) details of the proposed traffic control devices to be used (traffic control devices developed for
use in the trial must comply with the design and location principles outlined in Clauses 1.7,
1.8, 1.9 and 1.12 of this Manual).

The department may impose any other terms and conditions that are considered necessary, including,
for example, a requirement to advertise details of the trial in a local newspaper in which the trial is to
be held.

1.14 Variation to treatments and Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland

certification

New

This Part of the Manual contains mandatory requirements (shall), recommendations (should) and
options (may). The application of these mandatory requirements and recommendations is intended to
provide the optimal level of safety and traffic efficiency. It is acknowledged that, in some instances,
variations to these requirements and recommendations may be necessary and, as such, variations to
these requirements and recommendations may be undertaken as follows:

a) Where recommendations (should) are not adopted, a risk assessment shall be undertaken
and certified by a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ).

b) Where mandatory requirements (shall) are not adopted, a risk assessment shall be
undertaken and certified by an RPEQ.

Notifications of variations to mandatory requirements (including all relevant information) shall

be emailed to [email protected] for information purposes and for the
benefit of identifying potential future practice changes – not for approval or endorsement.
These variations may include learnings that may be attributed to the variation of a shall
requirement, such as operational, cost or safety impacts.

c) Where innovative treatments (see Clause 1.3.9) that are outside the scope of the
Queensland MUTCD are proposed to be adopted, a risk assessment shall be undertaken and
certified by an RPEQ.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 11
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

d) All proposed innovative treatments require approval by Transport and Main Roads prior to
their use or adoption. Requests for approval of innovative treatments (including all relevant
information) shall be emailed to [email protected]. As part of an
approval to use or trial an innovative treatment, Transport and Main Roads may require that
the application provides a detailed evaluation report on the performance and effectiveness of
the treatment. Transport and Main Roads may use the results of the evaluation to identify
potential future practice changes to this Part of the Manual.

e) The use of options (may) is not a variation to the optimal treatment and does not require
certification by an RPEQ.

2 Regulatory signs
2.4 Index of regulatory signs

2.4.1 Movement series – R1

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

R1-2-Q01 GIVE WAY – CANE Queensland MUTCD

TRAMS ONLY Part 7

2.4.2 Direction series – R2

Deletion

The following signs are not used in Queensland:

R2-20 Left Turn on Red Permitted after Stopping

R2-21 Hook Turn Only

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 12
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

R2-3-Q01 KEEP LEFT Queensland MUTCD

Part 3

QGTTM Part 3

R2-3-Q02 KEEP LEFT

(various sizes)

R2-Q02 THROUGH TRAFFIC Queensland MUTCD

KEEP LEFT Part 2

2.4.3 Pedestrian series – R3

Deletion

The following sign is not used in Queensland:

R3-4 Children Crossing 40, when lights flashing

Addition

The following sign may be used in Queensland:

R3-Q01 WALK TO ISLAND TRUM Vol 1 Part 4

AND WAIT FOR
FURTHER SIGNAL

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 13
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

2.4.4 Speed series – R4

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

R4-4-Q01 MAXIMUM SPEED Queensland MUTCD

FOR PERSONAL Part 4
MOBILITY DEVICES

R4-4-Q02 MAXIMUM SPEED Queensland MUTCD

FOR PERSONAL Part 4
MOBILITY DEVICES
ON PATH

R4-4-Q03 MAXIMUM SPEED Queensland MUTCD

FOR PERSONAL Part 4
MOBILITY DEVICES

R4-Q01 SCHOOL ZONE Queensland MUTCD

Speed Limit Part 4

R4-Q03 SCHOOL ZONE Queensland MUTCD

AHEAD Part 4
SPEED LIMIT

R4-Q04 SCHOOL ZONE Queensland MUTCD

SPEED LIMIT Part 4
(Double Arrow)

R4-Q09 SPEED LIMIT Queensland MUTCD

BRIDGE DAMAGE Part 4
CONTROL

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 14
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

R4-Q05 ROAD TRAIN SPEED Queensland MUTCD

LIMIT Part 4

R4-Q06 END ROAD TRAIN Queensland MUTCD

SPEED LIMIT Part 4

R4-Q07 HOSPITAL ZONE Queensland MUTCD

Part 4

TC1783 ENHANCED SCHOOL Queensland MUTCD

ZONE Part 4
SPEED LIMIT SIGN –
ALL DAY TIMES

TC1797 SPEED LIMIT Queensland MUTCD

HAZARD Part 4

TC2366 Orange Target Board Queensland MUTCD

to the standard Speed Part 3
Restriction sign (R4-1_
with a ROAD WORK
supplementary
plate (R4-3-

2.4.5 Parking series – R5

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

R5-Q01 TOW-AWAY ZONE Queensland MUTCD

Part 11

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Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

R5-Q07 ELECTRIC Queensland MUTCD

VEHICLES Part 6
CHARGING
STATION
(PAVEMENT
SYMBOL)
R5-23-Q01 Special LOADING Queensland MUTCD
ZONE Part 11
(PASSENGERS
2 MINUTE or
COMMERCIAL VEH
20 MINUTE)

R5-40-Q01-2 NO PARKING, Queensland MUTCD

ELECTRIC Part 6
VEHICLES
EXCEPTED WHILE
CHARGING

2.4.6 Miscellaneous series – R6

Deletion

The following sign is not used in Queensland:

R6-26 TRAMWAY CROSSING Position

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

R6-Q05 PERSONAL
MOBILITY DEVICES
PROHIBITED

R6-Q03 AUTHORISED BUSES

ONLY BEYOND THIS
POINT

R6-8-Q01 STOP / SLOW HAND Queensland MUTCD

BANNER Part 3

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 16
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

2.4.9 Supplementary plates for general use – R9

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

TC2371_1 … EXCEPTED
(1 Line)

TC2371_2 … EXCEPTED
(2 Line)

TC2371_3 … EXCEPTED
(3 Line)

2.4.10 Railway crossing flashing signal assembly – RX-5, RX-11

New

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

RX-5-Q01 RAILWAY CROSSING Queensland MUTCD

ASSEMBLY – ACTIVE Part 7
TRACKSIDE ROAD
SIGN

RX-11-Q01 RAILWAY CROSSING Queensland MUTCD

ASSEMBLY – ACTIVE Part 7
EARLY WARNING
SIGN

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 17
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

3 Warning signs
3.3 Shape, colour and message

Addition

As warning signs are placed primarily for the protection of the driver who is not familiar with the road, it
is very important that proper judgment be exercised in their location and erection. Warning signs
should generally be placed in advance of the hazard as specified in the typical arrangement diagrams
included in this Manual. Elsewhere, they should be located a distance A in advance of the hazard.

V85 A
(km/h) (m)
<75 80–120
75–90 120–180
>90 180–250

However, in urban areas (for example, where cross streets are closely spaced) this distance may be
reduced to a minimum of 30 m. The actual advance warning distance will be determined by factors
such as legibility of the sign, nature of the hazard and the prevailing speed. These factors relate to the
time available to the driver to comprehend and react to the message and the time needed by the
driver to perform any necessary manoeuvre. Test runs should be made by day and by night to check
the location and mounting of each installation.

3.4 Index of warning signs

3.4.2 Intersection series – W2

Addition

The following sign may be used in Queensland:

W2-Q01 Successive Side Road

Junction

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Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

3.4.3 Advance warning of traffic control device series – W3

Addition

The following sign may be used in Queensland:

W3-Q01 Signals Ahead Queensland MUTCD

Part 14

TC2353 NEW SPEED LIMIT Queensland MUTCD

AHEAD Part 4

3.4.5 Road obstacle series – W5

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

W5-Q04 DRIFT SAND Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

W5-Q05 SOFT EDGES Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

W5-Q07 CANE HAULING Queensland MUTCD

AHEAD Part 2

W5-Q09 RUMBLE STRIPS

W5-Q10 UNFENCED ROAD, Queensland MUTCD

WATCH FOR Part 2
WANDERING
ANIMALS

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 19
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

W5-49-Q01 WILDLIFE TRUM Vol 3 Part 8

3.4.6 Pedestrian, bicycle and school series – W6

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

W6-Q01 NATIONAL TRAIL Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Part 6

W6-Q02 National Trail ROAD Queensland MUTCD

CROSSING Part 6

W6-Q03 TRAIL crossing Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

W6-Q04_1 CYCLIST / MOTORIST Queensland MUTCD

SEPARATION Part 9
60 km/h OR LESS
SPEED ZONE

W6-Q04_2 CYCLIST / MOTORIST Queensland MUTCD

SEPARATION Part 9
GREATER THAN
60 km/h SPEED
ZONES

W6-Q05 RETROFIT BICYCLE Queensland MUTCD

LANE IN A LEFT Part 9
TURN LANE

W6-Q06_1 NARROW Queensland MUTCD

SHOULDER AHEAD Part 9

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 20
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

W6-Q06_2 SHARED Queensland MUTCD

PATH … km / IN Part 9
TRAFFIC … km

3.4.7 Railway crossing series – W7

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

W7-13-Q01_1 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_2 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_3 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_4 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_5 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_6 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

W7-13-Q01_7 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 21
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

W7-Q01_1 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_2 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_3 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_4 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_5 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_6 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

W7-Q01_7 Railway Level Queensland MUTCD

Crossing Warning Part 7
Sign – Short
Stacking

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 22
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

W7-Q02_1 Use Emergency Queensland MUTCD

Bay Part 7

W7-Q02_2 Wait in Turn Lane Queensland MUTCD

Part 7

W7-Q03 Limited Clearance Queensland MUTCD

to Rails Part 7

3.4.8 Supplementary plate series – W8

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

W8-Q01 CANE RAILWAY Queensland MUTCD

Part 7

W8-Q02 CROSSING 300 m Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

W8-Q03 BUS STOP TRUM Vol 2 Part 5

W8-Q05 WAIT TILL ROAD Queensland MUTCD

CLEAR Part 6

W8-Q06 WATCH FOR Queensland MUTCD

TRAFFIC Part 6
W8-Q11 SHARE THE ROAD Queensland MUTCD
Part 9

TC2352 NEW LIMIT Queensland MUTCD

Part 4

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 23
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4 Guide signs
4.4 Index of guide signs

4.4.3 Minor intersection direction (Type 2) and (Type 3) series – G3

Addition

The following sign may be used in Queensland:

G3-4-Q01 Overhead sign on Queensland MUTCD

structures Part 5

4.4.7 Service series – G7

4.4.7.2 Symbols for service signs

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

S14-Q01 Parking Area – Train Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

S14-Q02 Parking Area – Bus Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

S14-Q03 Parking Area – Ferry Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

S14-Q04 Parking Area – Light Queensland MUTCD

Rail Part 6

SQ01 Train Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

SQ02 Bus Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 24
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

SQ03 Ferry Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

SQ04 Visitor information Queensland MUTCD

centre Part 6

SQ06 Unsuitable for Queensland MUTCD

caravans Part 6

SQ07 Electric vehicle Queensland MUTCD

charging station Part 6

SQ08 Light rail Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

SQ09 University campus

SQ10 Swimming enclosure

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 25
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4.4.9 Traffic instruction series – G9

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

G9-5-2-Q01 DETOUR FOR HEAVY Queensland MUTCD

VEHICLES Part 2

G9-32-Q01 CANE RAILWAY Queensland MUTCD

CROSSINGS FOR Part 7
…km

G9-32-Q02 END OF CANE Queensland MUTCD

RAILWAY CROSSINGS Part 7

G9-Q03 SUGAR CANE AREA Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

G9-Q05-1 Rest Area NOTICE Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

G9-Q05-2 Rest Area NOTICE Queensland MUTCD

Part 6

G9-Q09 FASTEN SEAT BELTS TRUM Vol 2 Part 5

G9-Q10-1 (Pedestrians) CROSS Queensland MUTCD

WITH CARE Part 14
QGTM Part 9

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 26
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

G9-Q10-2 (Pedestrians) CROSS Queensland MUTCD

WITH CARE Part 14
QGTM Part 9

G9-Q12 LANE UNDER ‘X’ Queensland MUTCD

CLOSED Part 14

TC1638 WHEELIE BIN Queensland MUTCD

SPEED REMINDER Part 4
STICKER

TC2320 SPEED CAMERAS Queensland MUTCD

USED AT Part 3
ROADWORKS FOR
ROAD SAFETY

TC2367 Orange Target Board to Queensland MUTCD

the standard Speed Part 3
Limit AHEAD
sign (G9-79) with a
ROAD WORK
supplementary
plate (R4-3)

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Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4.4.11 Tourist Series – G11

4.4.11.1 General

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

G11-Q01 NATIONAL TRAIL Queensland MUTCD

directional sign Part 6
G11-Q02 Special Tourist Sign Queensland MUTCD
Part 6

G11-Q03 TOWN WELCOME SIGN Queensland MUTCD

WITH IMAGE ONLY Part 6

G11-Q04 TOURIST Queensland MUTCD

INFORMATION SIGN Part 6
'WELCOME TO THE […]'
(1 LINE)

G11-Q05 WELCOME TO Queensland MUTCD

QUEENSLAND – FOR Part 6
NON-STATE
STRATEGIC TOURING
ROUTE

4.4.12 Expressway direction series – GE

4.4.12.1 Expressway advance direction series – GE1

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE1-Q01 Freeway Approach

GE1-Q02 Freeway Approach

GE1-Q03 Freeway Approach

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 28
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4.4.12.2 Expressway exit direction series – GE2

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE2-3-Q01 Freeway exit number gore

sign

4.4.12.3 Expressway reassurance direction series – GE4

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE4-1-Q01 Interchange Queensland MUTCD

sequence, Service Part 6
centre

4.4.12.4 Expressway information series – GE6

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE6-Q01 PROHIBITED ON Queensland MUTCD

MOTORWAY Part 2

GE6-Q08 Motorway service Queensland MUTCD

centres Next Part 6
Exit / Next service
…km

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 29
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4.4.12.5 Expressway service series – GE7

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE7-3-Q01 SERVICE Queensland MUTCD

CENTRE … km – with Part 6
logos

GE7-3-Q02 SERVICE Queensland MUTCD

CENTRE … km LEFT Part 6
LANE – with logos

GE7-3-Q03 SERVICE CENTRE Queensland MUTCD

NEXT EXIT Part 6

4.4.12.6 Expressway traffic instruction series – GE9

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE9-Q02 MOTORWAY ENTRY Queensland MUTCD

RESTRICTED WHEN Part 14
FLASHING QGTM Part 9

GE9-Q03 ONE VHICLE ONLY Queensland MUTCD

ON GREEN SIGNAL Part 14
QGTM Part 9

GE9-Q04 ONE VEHICLE PER Queensland MUTCD

LANE ON GREEN Part 14
SIGNAL QGTM Part 9

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 30
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

4.4.12.7 Expressway tourist series – GE11

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

GE11-Q01_2 LOCAL TOURIST Queensland MUTCD

AREA "ACCESS Part 6
TO … TURN … … m"
(LOCAL ROADS)

GE1-15-Q01_1 TOURIST ROUTE Queensland MUTCD

DIRECTION SIGN – Part 6
DIAGRAMMATIC

5 Temporary signs
5.4 Index of signs for works on roads and temporary hazards

5.4.1 Advance series – T1

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

T1-23-Q01 CHANGED TRAFFIC Queensland MUTCD

CONDITIONS Part 6

T1-Q06 ROADWORK AHEAD Queensland MUTCD

Part 3

T1-Q07 ROADWORK ON SIDE Queensland MUTCD

ROAD (arrow) Part 3

T1-Q08 LINEMARKERS ON Queensland MUTCD

ROAD Part 3

T1-Q09 MOBILE Queensland MUTCD

LINEMARKING Part 3
AHEAD

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 31
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

T1-Q10 Tractor / Slasher Queensland MUTCD

MOWING Part 3

T1-Q14 CHANGED LINE Queensland MUTCD

MARKING Part 2

TC1992_1 TURN ON HAZARD Queensland MUTCD

LIGHTS WHEN Part 3
QUEUED

TC2361 ROADWORK SPEED Queensland MUTCD

LIMITS ARE Part 3
ENFORCED /
CAMERA SYMBOLIC

5.4.2 Position series – T2

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

T2-4-Q02 ROAD CLOSED Queensland MUTCD

…km AHEAD Part 3

T2-Q07 Lane Status (4 lane) Queensland MUTCD

Part 3

TC1992_2 TURN OFF Queensland MUTCD

HAZARD LIGHTS Part 3

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 32
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

5.4.3 Road condition series – T3

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

T3-Q02 Traffic Signal NOT Queensland MUTCD

IN USE Part 3

T3-Q03 SIGNALS UNDER Queensland MUTCD

REPAIR Part 3

5.4.4 Special hazard series – T4

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

T4-Q03 DANGER GAS NO

SMOKING

T4-Q04 ELECTRIC WIRES DOWN

5.4.6 Vehicle mounted series – T6

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

T6-Q01 ROAD TRAIN Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

T6-Q03 OVERSIZE Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

T6-Q04 OVERSIZE LOAD Queensland MUTCD

AHEAD Part 2

T6-Q08 WET PAINT with

Chevrons

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 33
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

5.4.7 Hand banner series

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland.

T7-1-Q01 STOP / SLOW Queensland MUTCD

HAND BANNER Part 3

5.4.9 Electronic series

New

The following signs may be used in Queensland.

R2-4-Q01_1 ROAD CLOSED – Queensland MUTCD

NO ENTRY Part 3

R2-4-Q01_2 ROAD CLOSED – Queensland MUTCD

NO ENTRY DUE Part 3
TO FLOODING

T1-Q26_3 ROAD CLOSED Queensland MUTCD

X km AHEAD DUE Part 3
TO FLOODING

T2-4-Q03 (NAMED) ROAD Queensland MUTCD

CLOSED DUE TO Part 3
FLOODING

TM1-46-Q01_1 QUEUED Queensland MUTCD

TRAFFIC AHEAD Part 3
PREPARE TO
STOP

TM1-46-Q01_2 QUEUED Queensland MUTCD

TRAFFIC AHEAD Part 3
PREPARE TO
STOP

TM1-Q01_1 REDUCE SPEED Queensland MUTCD

Part 3

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 34
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

TM1-40-Q01_1 LINE MARKERS Queensland MUTCD

AHEAD Part 3

5.4.10 Multi-message series

New

For multi-message signs at roadworks, refer to Appendices A, C and D in Part 3 of the

Queensland MUTCD.

6 Hazard markers
6.4 Index of hazard markers

Addition

The following signs may be used in Queensland:

D4-1-1-Q03 Sight board¹ Queensland MUTCD

Part 2

D4-1-2-Q01 Unidirectional Queensland MUTCD

Hazard Part 2
Marker

D4-2-2-Q01 Bidirectional Queensland MUTCD

Hazard Part 2
Marker

Note:
1. The D4-1-1-Q03 sign is installed back-to-back as shown in SD1452 where it is used to form a sight
board at an intersection.
New

8 Target boards for signs

8.1 Introduction

Target boards may be used where the conspicuity of a sign needs to be increased as identified in the
following situations:

• where the general environmental background colour is similar to a traffic sign colour; or

• where roadside features such as similarly-coloured advertising signs, including billboards,

could reduce the effect of a traffic sign or render it less distinguishable.

Part 10 of the Austroads Guide to Traffic Management acknowledges that contrasting fluorescent
material may be used as a target board or border to improve the conspicuity of regulatory, warning or
important guide signs.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 35
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

8.2 Size and colour

The target board should increase the overall sign face width and height by a minimum of 15% and a
maximum of 20%. This increase in dimensions is indicative. Less than 15% will not usually provide
enough definition, separation and contrast to warrant the installation of a target board in the first place.
Edge margins greater than 20% are not likely to increase the visual effect of the sign, compared to a
sign which has a target board that increases its dimensions by about 20%.

Target boards are always rectangular and do not match the shape of the base sign. Target board
edge strips should generally be the same shape as the sign being enhanced (for example, octagonal
for a STOP (R1-1) sign, triangular for GIVE WAY (R1-2) sign and circular for a pedestrian
crossing (R3-1) symbolic sign).

Target boards and target board edge strips should only be initiated when there is evidence or
likelihood of motorists having difficulty in seeing or reading a traffic sign.

Table 8.2 identifies the appropriate use of different coloured target boards and target board edge
strips for specific applications.

Target boards may be red, yellow, green or white. Target board edge strips may be fluorescent orange
or black. Table 8.2 provides information on the colour of target board and target board edge strip.

Table 8.2: Applications of signing target boards

Sign / Situation Colour Sign examples

Special warning signs
Safety critical applications Retroreflective red or yellow
where there is a need to target board.
enhance warning signs or to Warning signs and
better identify potential road supplementary plates (if
safety issues required) are to be yellow.
Extra text if required (REDUCE
SPEED, PREPARE TO STOP,
TURNING TRAFFIC and so
on) shall be in white font on the
red background.
Flashing lights may also be
installed in some
circumstances.

School zones
Combined Retroreflective fluorescent
fluorescent / retroreflective yellow green sign/s with
materials as target board edge retroreflective fluorescent
strips shall be limited to school orange target board edge strip.
zone signs to maintain their
high-impact effectiveness.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 36
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Sign / Situation Colour Sign examples

Special advance warning signs
Application of this device is Retroreflective green target
restricted to locations where a board with warning (and
higher-impact sign is supplementary signs if
warranted, and a road name required) in yellow. The road
plate is to be included. name plate is in the standard
colours.
Wildlife warning signs
High-impact wildlife warnings Retroreflective white target
signs should be used board with retroreflective green
selectively at hotspot locations border.
or areas with significant Warning signs and
conservation value. The white supplementary plates (if
target board provides a good required) are to be yellow.
contrast to the green (refer Traffic and Road Use
background effect of trees, Management (TRUM) manual,
improving sign conspicuity. Volume 3, Part 8 for further
information).
Target board edge strips
In areas with low light or fog Retroreflective fluorescent
conditions where sign visibility orange target board edge
needs to be enhanced. The strip (other than for school
fluorescent orange target zones, where a fluorescent
board edge strip is only to be target edge board is used, the
used with regulatory signs or sign shall be non-fluorescent).
safety critical signs. Examples See Section 8.5.
include reduced speed limit
signs, GIVE WAY signs and
STOP signs. In other cases, to
increase the conspicuity of the
sign, black target board edge
strip may be used.

Target board to multi-message sign frame

High-visibility awareness of Retroreflective fluorescent
multi-message signs used orange target board edge strip
temporarily at roadwork sites for multi-message sign frames

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 37
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Sign / Situation Colour Sign examples

Special information or warning signs
Application of this device Retroreflective yellow target
restricted to locations where board.
greater conspicuity is needed, Other signs on the target board
and a higher-impact sign is are to be in their standard
warranted. colours.

8.3 Installation of target boards

The installation of target boards should be in the same manner as the installation of standard signs, in
accordance with the Queensland Manual of Traffic Control Devices. The target board or edge strip
may be affixed to the back of standard signs or manufactured as part of the sign.

8.4 Removal of target boards

If separately installed, target boards should be removed only when their presence does not improve
the legibility or visibility of the standard traffic sign to which they are attached. Signs with integral
target boards or edge strips should be removed and replaced with standard signs if the same
conditions prevail.

8.5 Approval of target boards for signs

Approval of target boards and edge strips is not subject to the normal approval process that applies to
official traffic signs. The target board and edge strip does not affect the functionality and meaning of
the sign; it merely increases the sign’s conspicuity.

Where target boards or edge strips may be considered necessary for installation on a regulatory sign
to address a road safety deficiency, the Safer Roads Infrastructure team should be consulted. Contact
[email protected].

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 38
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Appendices

Appendix B – Erection and removal of regulatory traffic control devices on roads

controlled by Department of Transport and Main Roads
B1 General

New

An essential adjunct to the erection or removal of any regulatory sign / device, is the recording and
filing of the circumstances for use in connection with any prosecutions or litigation resulting from traffic
offences, or traffic accidents, in the area of the particular sign / device. This procedure particularly
applies when regulatory signs / devices are used as a traffic control aid at, or adjacent to, road
construction and maintenance work sites.

This Appendix outlines example procedures for the erection and removal of permanent signs and
devices. Variations to these procedures can be implemented to address Quality Management and
Administration Practices. Procedures for the erection and removal of temporary signs and devices are
given in Part 3 of this Manual, Traffic Control for Works on Roads.

B2 Example procedures for the erection or removal of permanent regulatory

signs / devices (that is, for other than roadworks purposes)

New

The example procedures are as follows:

a) Prior to the placement or removal of regulatory signs / devices, a Form M994 should be
completed.
b) The original Form M994 should be filed on a Region Register.
c) A Form M994 is not required when a damaged or deteriorated sign / device is removed and
replaced by a new one of the same size and type, providing the replacement is erected in the
same location as the old sign / device.
NOTES:
1. Permanent signs and markings plans for a project, suitably annotated, may be used in lieu of
Form M994.
2. Permanent speed limit changes and other regulatory signs and devices may alternatively be recorded on
the authority’s road database system, where appropriate. Time and date of installation is required.

B3 Example procedures for variable speed limit and lane control signs

New

The example procedures are as follows:

Initial installation
a) A Form M994 should be completed covering the multiple devices at each location.
b) The form should record the speed limits capable of being displayed.
c) The form should be filed on a Region Register.

Operation
a) A Form M994 is not required for every speed limit or lane control change. Some form of data
recording is still required for evidentiary purposes.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 39
Part 1: General introduction and index of signs

Appendix C – Application of warrants and guidelines-

New

Traffic operation is facilitated by efficient control devices, but these devices must be selected and used
following scientific investigation, not subjective assessment.

A proper evaluation embraces the measurement of certain factors, such as traffic volume, and a close
engineering study of the environment to ascertain firstly, if there is a need for control in a particular
situation, and secondly, the type of control device which should be used.

Long experience has established the respective conditions under which the many traffic control
devices are justified. These conditions, called warrants or guidelines, may comprise quantitative
figures or other general requirements at the site concerned. Established warrants and guidelines for
the installation of control devices are prescribed in the Manual.

The use of warrants and guidelines is to ensure that:

a) control devices are installed where the need has been proven, and only in such situations

b) the most efficient treatment is provided for any given set of conditions, and

c) standard treatment is employed at similar situations.

However, even if a formal warrant or guideline is satisfied in a particular instance, it does not
necessarily follow that the relevant traffic control device should be installed on that basis alone. The
justification for the installation of a particular device often involves a number of elements; some
incapable of being expressed in quantitative terms. To attempt to include all such elements in formal
warrants or guidelines would be impractical, and therefore the final decision must involve proper
engineering judgement.

There will occur, in practice, many cases where a particular form of control would be best suited to the
local conditions, although the requirements of the formal warrant or guideline may indicate otherwise.
In some cases, it may be advisable to refrain from imposing a particular type of control, although the
prescribed warrant or guideline may be met. In other instances, some form of control may be justified
where there is no applicable warrant or guideline. Indeed, objective investigations will, in practice,
frequently indicate that the most effective treatment should be constructional works, such as
improvement to visibility or widening of pavement.

In all cases, engineering judgement must be used in assessing the need for treatment at any location.
Warrants and guidelines set out in the Manual should be regarded as the means of exercising this
judgment and selecting the proper treatment, rather than as a substitute for it.

However, it is emphasised that warrants and guidelines have been established after long experience
and careful study and should not be departed from unless the necessity to do so can be fully
substantiated.

Warrants and guidelines for particular traffic control devices are included in the relevant Part of this
Manual.

Queensland Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices, Transport and Main Roads, March 2023 40