MUTCD R8-9: TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign

The R8-9 sign is covered in Section 8B.08 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 TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign (see Figure 8B-1) may be used at a grade crossing instead of a Crossbuck (R15-1) sign and a Number of Tracks (R15-2P) plaque or instead of a Crossbuck Assembly where railroad or LRT tracks have been temporarily or permanently abandoned, but only until such time that the tracks are removed or covered.
• Standard · Required (shall)
  Where tracks are out of service, except as provided in Paragraphs 3 and 4 of this Section, traffic control devices and gate arms shall be removed and the signal heads shall be removed or hooded or turned from view to clearly indicate that they are not in operation.

Placement and mounting

• Standard · Required (shall)
  Where tracks are out of service, even if a TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE (R8-9) sign has been installed, an Emergency Notification System (I13-1) sign (see Section 8B.27) shall be retained at the grade crossing and shall be visible to road users.

Where to read the rest

• Full text: MUTCD Section 8B.08: TRACKS OUT OF SERVICE Sign
• Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide