W20-7 Flagger Sign
Uses a flagger symbol to warn drivers that a flagger is controlling traffic ahead and that they must be prepared to stop or follow the flagger's directions.
| Sign code | W20-7 |
|---|---|
| Federal code | W20-7 |
| Name | Flagger |
| Category | Warning Signs |
| Shape | Diamond |
| Color | Orange background, black flagger symbol |
| California status | Used in California per CA MUTCD |
| Typical CA minimum size | 48" × 48" on conventional roads; 60" × 60" on expressways and freeways |
What This Sign Means
Uses a flagger symbol to warn drivers that a flagger is controlling traffic ahead and that they must be prepared to stop or follow the flagger's directions.
California Temporary Traffic Control Use
Placed ahead of a flagging station in a California TTC zone, commonly used with BE PREPARED TO STOP for alternating one-way or intermittent control.
Common TCP Context
- Flagging stations on lane closures and one-lane operations
- Paired with W3-4 BE PREPARED TO STOP
- Used with pilot-car operations on two-lane roads
California Size Requirements
Typical minimum: 48" × 48" on conventional roads; 60" × 60" on expressways and freeways.
Sizes are CA MUTCD minimums and vary by roadway classification and speed. Verify against the CA MUTCD 2026 (CA MUTCD Part 6 (Temporary Traffic Control), Chapter 6F; warning-sign design in Part 2C), Caltrans sign specifications, and the reviewing agency.
Common Placement on a TCP
Where it sits: Approach to the activity area.
CA MUTCD reference: CA MUTCD Part 6 (Temporary Traffic Control), Chapter 6F; warning-sign design in Part 2C.
Los Angeles Area Usage Notes
In Los Angeles, this sign must conform to CA MUTCD 2026. Work in City of LA right-of-way is reviewed by StreetsLA and the Bureau of Engineering (BOE); state highways in LA County are permitted and reviewed by Caltrans District 7; county roads are permitted by LA County DPW. Sizes, retroreflectivity, and placement must meet CA MUTCD minimums — local agencies may require larger signs based on roadway class, speed, pedestrian volume, and proximity to schools or transit.
Common Plan Review Comments
- Flagger sign shown without BE PREPARED TO STOP (W3-4) where flagging warrants it.
- Flagger station location or sight distance inadequate for the posted speed.
- Sign omitted where flaggers control alternating one-lane traffic.
- Sheeting / retroreflectivity class not noted on the plan.
Plan Review Notes
Confirm flagger stations, sight distance, and advance warning meet CA MUTCD flagging requirements. Public Ready reviews flagging-station signing.
Signs Commonly Used Together
These signs are typically deployed alongside W20-7 on a California TCP.
Rent or Purchase This Sign
Using flaggers on a California project? Public Ready can supply the FLAGGER (W20-7) symbol sign and supporting signs.
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.