MUTCD D5-1: Rest Area and Other Roadside Area Signs

The D5-1 sign is covered in Section 2I.05 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition. Below are the provisions from that section that describe when the sign is used and how it is placed.

What it means and when it is used

• Standard · Required (shall)
  Rest Area signs (see Figure 2I-5 ) shall have a retroreflective white legend and border on a blue background.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  Signs that include the legend REST AREA shall be used only where parking and restroom facilities are available.

Placement and mounting

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  If a rest area or other roadside area is provided on a conventional road, a D5-1 and/or D5-1a sign should be installed in advance of the rest area or other roadside area to permit the driver to reduce speed in preparation for leaving the highway. A D5-5 sign (or a D5-2 sign if an exit ramp is provided) should be installed at the turn-off point where the driver needs to leave the highway to access the rest area or…
• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  If a rest area or other roadside area is provided on a freeway or expressway, a D5-1 sign should be placed 1 mile and/or 2 miles in advance of the rest area.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  A D5-2a sign shall be placed at the rest area or other roadside area exit gore.

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2I.05: Rest Area and Other Roadside Area Signs
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide

Related signs in Section 2I.05