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.
MUTCD-style sign reference illustration. Always verify against the official CA MUTCD and Caltrans sign charts.
| 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 |
Download this sign or open the official MUTCD reference.
Official source: FHWA Standard Highway Signs, 2024 (11th Edition) — Warning & Temporary Traffic Control signs.
Source: FHWA Standard Highway Signs — Public Domain. California: CA MUTCD 2026 (effective Jan 18, 2026).
Files linked from FHWA are official government publications in the public domain. CA MUTCD and Caltrans links open official government websites. Always verify against the current edition.
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.
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. In the field, W20-7 Flagger is typically positioned at the approach to the activity area. Common deployments include 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. Always confirm its size, retroreflective sheeting, spacing, and placement against the CA MUTCD 2026 and the reviewing agency before finalizing the traffic control plan.
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 field deployments
Agency review note
StreetsLA, LA County DPW, and Caltrans District 7 may require larger sizes or additional devices. Verify with the reviewing agency before finalizing the TCP.
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.
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.
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.
Confirm flagger stations, sight distance, and advance warning meet CA MUTCD flagging requirements. Public Ready reviews flagging-station signing.
These signs are typically deployed alongside W20-7 on a California TCP.
Using flaggers on a California project? Public Ready can supply the FLAGGER (W20-7) symbol sign and supporting signs.
Free official resource — opens official government website
Free official resource — opens official government website
Free official resource — opens official government website
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.
To understand the bigger picture around permits, agency review, lane closures, and pedestrian access for work zones using W20-7 Flagger, visit WorkZoneCompliance.com.
Public Ready can help with W20-7 Flagger — including sign rental or purchase, work-zone signs, TCP sign legends, and permit coordination, and agency-review support for Caltrans District 7, the City of Los Angeles, and LA County.
