R11-3a Road Closed Ahead Sign
A regulatory sign advising that the road is closed ahead, often with a local-traffic or detour message, so drivers can prepare to turn or detour.
| Sign code | R11-3a |
|---|---|
| Federal code | R11-3a |
| Name | Road Closed Ahead |
| Category | Road Closure Signs |
| Shape | Rectangle (Horizontal) |
| Color | White background, black legend |
| California status | Used in California per CA MUTCD |
| Typical CA minimum size | 48" × 30" |
What This Sign Means
A regulatory sign advising that the road is closed ahead, often with a local-traffic or detour message, so drivers can prepare to turn or detour.
California Temporary Traffic Control Use
Used on California approaches to a closure to advise drivers in advance, frequently paired with local-access or detour wording.
Common TCP Context
- Approaches to a full roadway closure
- Often combined with local-access messaging
- Used with detour route markers
California Size Requirements
Typical minimum: 48" × 30".
Sizes are CA MUTCD minimums and vary by roadway classification and speed. Verify against the CA MUTCD 2026 (CA MUTCD Part 2B (Regulatory Signs) and Part 6F), Caltrans sign specifications, and the reviewing agency.
Common Placement on a TCP
Where it sits: At the closure point (activity area), typically on a barricade.
CA MUTCD reference: CA MUTCD Part 2B (Regulatory Signs) and Part 6F.
Los Angeles Area Usage Notes
In Los Angeles, full closures typically require coordination with LADOT for signal timing, LA County Metro where transit routes are affected, and public-notice requirements under City or county ordinance. On state highways in LA County, Caltrans District 7 reviews the encroachment permit; county roads are permitted by LA County DPW. Confirm closure limits match the approved permit exactly.
Common Plan Review Comments
- Closure limits on the plan do not match the approved permit exactly.
- Closure not backed by advance warning and a signed detour.
- Local-access provisions unclear (especially for ROAD CLOSED TO THRU TRAFFIC).
- Barricade type (e.g., Type III) not specified.
Plan Review Notes
Confirm advance closure messaging matches the local-access and detour plan. Public Ready reviews closure-approach signing.
Signs Commonly Used Together
These signs are typically deployed alongside R11-3a on a California TCP.
Rent or Purchase This Sign
Need ROAD CLOSED AHEAD (R11-3a)? Public Ready can supply it with the closure and detour package.
Official References
- California MUTCD (Caltrans)
Free official resource — opens official government website
- Federal MUTCD (FHWA)
Free official resource — opens official government website
- Caltrans Sign Charts
Free official resource — opens official government website
- FHWA Standard Highway Signs
Free official resource — opens official government website
Educational reference only. This is not an official Caltrans, FHWA, or local agency publication and is not legal or engineering advice. Always verify sign selection, size, placement, spacing, and application against the current CA MUTCD 2026, Caltrans sign specifications, Standard Plans, project documents, and the reviewing agency’s requirements.
Related Signs
Need signs for a California project?
Need to rent, purchase, or include traffic control signs on a California project? Public Ready can help with sign rental, purchase, sign packages, TCP sign legends, and permit coordination.