About Dead End Signs
What are Dead End Signs, and what do they look like?
A Dead End Sign warns drivers that the upcoming road ends, and that the only exit is at the road entrance. Signs in this category read “Dead End” and have two shapes: one is a diamond-shaped sign, and the other is a sign in the size and shape of a street name sign. Both sign styles are yellow with black text and a thin black border, and the street name blade Dead End Sign has an arrow pointing to the right or left.
The most common Dead End Signs are listed below
Click the item for more information
Where are Dead End Signs placed?
The MUTCD outlines that Dead End Signs should be as visible as possible so that a road user has time to turn away from the dead end (2C.24, 01). For unnamed roads, a standalone Dead End Sign can be used in place of a street name sign (2C.24, 03).
Do I need a “Dead End” or “No Outlet” Sign?
Dead End Signs are used to mark a single road that ends without an intersection, such as a road with undeveloped land at its end. No Outlet Signs are used where one or multiple roads have no other exit than the entrance, often seen at the entrance/exit of a subdivision. (2C.24, 01)
Selecting a Dead End Sign
What Dead End Sign sizes do you offer?
We offer four diamond-shaped sign sizes: 24”x24”, 30”x30”, 36”x36”, and 48”x48” signs. 24-inch signs fulfill the federal minimum dimensions, but are limited to low-volume roads. 30-inch signs are for single-lane roads, 36-inch signs are for multi-lane roads and highways, and 48-inch signs are oversized for additional visibility. For Dead End Signs printed onto street name blades, we offer 36”x9” flat and extruded blades.
Are the diamond-shaped and street name blade Dead End Signs interchangeable?
The two sign shapes aren’t interchangeable. A diamond-shaped sign, not a street name blade sign, should be used when traffic approaches a dead-end road head-on (2C.24, 05).
Mounting Signs
How do I mount Dead End Signs?
Diamond-shaped signs are compatible with any round, square, or U-channel post. 48”x48” signs have four pre-punched holes and need to be mounted with two sign posts. Street name blade Dead End Signs can be mounted onto 5.5” or 12” slot street sign brackets.
Mounting Signs
Where can I find more information about Dead End Signs?
Chapter 2C, Section 2C.24 of the MUTCD has more in-depth guidance on Dead End Signs.
MUTCD W14-1 
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