MUTCD Requirements for Traffic Cones and Barricades
In work zone safety, traffic cones and barricades are some of the most important tools in the field, but did you know that the requirements for these devices can vary depending on which state you’re in? Although the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) sets the federal standard, many states either adopt the MUTCD directly, issue their own state MUTCD, or publish supplemental guidelines.
This guide breaks down the requirements for traffic cones and barricades in all 50 states, listed alphabetically. Use this chart before you purchase to make sure your equipment meets the correct specifications for your state.
Show Table Hide Table
| State | Adoption Model | Governing Document | Cones – Key Requirements | Barricades – Key Requirements | Notes | Primary Source | Source Link | Last Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Alaska | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Arizona | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Arkansas | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| California | State MUTCD (CA MUTCD) | CA MUTCD 2014, Revision 8 (effective 2024‑01‑11) | CA MUTCD §6F.64 follows national heights (18″/28″). Historically permitted retroreflective sleeves; recent CTCDC items clarify two white bands; additional orange band below whites not allowed in Rev 8; proposals under review for 36″ cones. | CA MUTCD §6F.68 aligns with national Type I/II/III usage and striping. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | Caltrans CA MUTCD; CTCDC agenda items on cone bands | CA MUTCD | Caltrans | 2025-09-02 |
| Colorado | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Connecticut | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Delaware | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Florida | National MUTCD (adopted) + FDOT Standards | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (current) plus FDOT design standards/specs | Follows national heights and bands; see FDOT for project specs. | Follows §6F; FDOT standards govern specific layouts/details. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | FDOT MUTCD information | Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices | 2025-09-02 |
| Georgia | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Hawaii | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Idaho | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Illinois | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Indiana | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Iowa | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Kansas | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Kentucky | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Louisiana | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Maine | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Maryland | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Massachusetts | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Michigan | State MUTCD (MMUTCD) | Michigan Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (current via MDOT) | Generally aligns with national; confirm details in MMUTCD Part 6. | As per §6F; see MMUTCD for specifics. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | MDOT MMUTCD | mmutcd | 2025-09-02 |
| Minnesota | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Mississippi | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Missouri | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Montana | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Nebraska | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Nevada | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| New Hampshire | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| New Jersey | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| New Mexico | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| New York | National MUTCD + NYS Supplement | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) + NYS Supplement (2010, eff. 2011‑03‑16) | Generally follows national heights and bands; check NYS Supplement for any deviations. | Follows §6F for Type I/II/III; confirm details in NYCRR 17 NYCRR Chapter V. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | NYSDOT MUTCD; NYCRR NYS Supplement | Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) | 2025-09-02 |
| North Carolina | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| North Dakota | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Ohio | National MUTCD + Ohio Supplement | National MUTCD 11th Ed. + Ohio Supplement (current per ODOT) | Generally follows national; verify any supplemental notes in Ohio Supplement. | As per §6F; Ohio Supplement may refine applications. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | ODOT Ohio Supplement to MUTCD | Ohio Supplement to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices | 2025-09-02 |
| Oklahoma | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Oregon | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Pennsylvania | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Rhode Island | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| South Carolina | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| South Dakota | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Tennessee | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Texas | State MUTCD (TMUTCD) | TMUTCD 2011, Revision 2 (effective 2014‑10‑09; current until replaced) | Generally aligns with national heights and retroreflective bands. | TMUTCD + TxDOT BC standard sheets detail layouts for Types I/II/III. | Priority state; verify project-specific specs with agency. Last checked 2025-09-02. | TxDOT TMUTCD; BC standard sheets | Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD) | 2025-09-02 |
| Utah | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Vermont | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Virginia | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Washington | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| West Virginia | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Wisconsin | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
| Wyoming | National MUTCD (11th Ed.) — verify supplement/state manual | National MUTCD 11th Ed. (effective 2024‑01‑18) | Min heights: 18″ (day/low-speed), 28″ (high-speed or night). Predominantly orange; two retroreflective bands (6″ + 4″) for night/high‑speed use. Material collapsible/vehicle-safe. (MUTCD §6F Cones) | Types I/II/III with alternating orange/white retroreflective stripes at 45°. Type I/II typically for low to high-speed lane closures; Type III spans full closure. Sheeting width 8–12″ for vertical panels; face traffic. (MUTCD §6F Barricades) | Confirm with state DOT whether a supplement or state MUTCD modifies specifics. | FHWA state info; state DOT | Information by State – FHWA MUTCD | 2025-09-02 |
Why MUTCD Compliance Matters
Even though cones and barricades are simple traffic regulators, the rules behind them are detailed for a reason. Understanding and following MUTCD guidelines directly impacts safety, compliance, and consistency on the road.
- Safety: Properly sized and marked traffic control devices improve visibility and reduce accidents.
- Legality: Using non-compliant devices can lead to fines, liability issues, or rejected contracts.
- Consistency: Drivers and pedestrians rely on a uniform system of signals, colors, and patterns across the country.
Rely on Transportation Supply for All Your Traffic Safety Needs
Transportation Supply carries cones and barricades that meet federal and state standards. Explore our full line and order with confidence knowing you’re getting MUTCD-compliant products, fast shipping, and expert support.
FAQs: MUTCD Requirements for Traffic Cones and Barricades
When buying MUTCD-compliant traffic cones and barricades, it’s common to run into questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequent buyer queries.
Do all states follow the MUTCD exactly?
Not always. Many states adopt the National MUTCD directly, but others issue a state MUTCD (like California, Michigan, and Texas) or publish a state supplement (such as New York and Ohio). Always double-check your state DOT’s requirements before ordering traffic safety equipment.
What are the MUTCD requirements for traffic cones?
According to the MUTCD, traffic cones must be at least 18 inches tall for daytime, low-speed use, and at least 28 inches tall for nighttime or high-speed applications. They must be orange with two retroreflective white bands for visibility in dark or high-speed conditions.
What are the MUTCD requirements for traffic barricades?
MUTCD-approved traffic barricades include Type I, II, and III designs, each with alternating orange-and-white retroreflective stripes. Type I and II are typically used for lane closures, while Type III barricades span the entire roadway for full closures.
How can I be sure the cones or barricades I purchase are MUTCD-compliant?
Always review product specifications and compare them against MUTCD guidelines. Buying from a trusted supplier like Transportation Supply ensures your cones and barricades meet MUTCD standards, helping you avoid compliance issues and keeping your crews safe.
Why Buy From Transportation Supply
Choosing the right cones and barricades is only half the battle. You also need a supplier you can trust. Transportation Supply has built its reputation on delivering MUTCD-compliant traffic safety equipment with the service and reliability professionals count on every day.
- Wide Selection: From cones and barricades to airport and parking safety products, we carry solutions for every project.
- Compliance You Can Trust: Our products meet or exceed MUTCD and state-specific standards, so you can order with confidence.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Many items ship the same day, getting your equipment on-site quickly.
- Customer-First Service: Our team listens, adapts, and delivers, helping you find exactly what you need.
