R2-1 Speed Limit Sign
Posts the maximum legal speed for the roadway, establishing the enforceable speed limit drivers must not exceed.
| Sign code | R2-1 |
|---|---|
| Federal code | R2-1 |
| Name | Speed Limit |
| Category | Regulatory Signs |
| Shape | Rectangle (Vertical) |
| Color | White background, black legend |
| California status | Used in California per CA MUTCD |
| Typical CA minimum size | 24" × 30" |
What This Sign Means
Posts the maximum legal speed for the roadway, establishing the enforceable speed limit drivers must not exceed.
California Temporary Traffic Control Use
Used in California where a reduced work-zone speed limit is established through the proper authority, posted to set the temporary limit through the area.
Common TCP Context
- Posting reduced work-zone speed limits
- Established under the proper speed-setting authority
- Used with work-zone warning signing
California Size Requirements
Typical minimum: 24" × 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)), Caltrans sign specifications, and the reviewing agency.
Common Placement on a TCP
Where it sits: Point of regulation within the activity area.
CA MUTCD reference: CA MUTCD Part 2B (Regulatory Signs).
Los Angeles Area Usage Notes
In Los Angeles, temporary regulatory changes (speed, one-way, turn or entry restrictions) generally involve LADOT review, and on state highways Caltrans District 7. Regulatory authority cannot be created by signing alone — confirm the change is authorized by the agency with jurisdiction over the roadway.
Common Plan Review Comments
- Temporary regulatory control not warranted or conflicts with existing control.
- Reduced speed limit posted without proper speed-setting authorization.
- Wrong-way protection (DO NOT ENTER / WRONG WAY) missing at closed approaches.
- Sign size not appropriate for the facility.
Plan Review Notes
Confirm any reduced limit is properly authorized and posted; speed cannot be lowered by signing alone. Public Ready reviews work-zone speed documentation.
Signs Commonly Used Together
These signs are typically deployed alongside R2-1 on a California TCP.
Rent or Purchase This Sign
Posting a work-zone speed limit? Public Ready can supply SPEED LIMIT (R2-1) signs with the correct legend.
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
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