MUTCD EM2-3: MAINTAIN TOP SAFE SPEED Sign

The EM2-3 sign is covered in Section 2N.06 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

• Option · Permitted (may)
  The MAINTAIN TOP SAFE SPEED (EM2-3) sign (see Figure 2N-1) may be used on highways where conditions are such that it is prudent to evacuate or traverse an area as quickly as possible.
• Option · Permitted (may)
  Where an existing Speed Limit (R2-1) sign is in a suitable location, the MAINTAIN TOP SAFE SPEED sign may be mounted directly over the face of the speed limit sign that it supersedes.

Placement and mounting

• Guidance · Recommended (should)
  The sign should be installed as needed, in the same manner as other standard speed signs.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  If used in rural areas, the MAINTAIN TOP SAFE SPEED sign shall be mounted on the right-hand side of the road at a horizontal distance of not less than 6 feet or more than 10 feet from the roadway edge, and at a minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom of the sign to the elevation of the near edge of the traveled way, of 5 feet. If used in urban areas, the minimum height, measured vertically from the bottom…

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 2N.06: MAINTAIN TOP SAFE SPEED Sign
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide