Signs and Markings:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Why Doesn't the County install "Children at Play" signs?
• What are the guidelines for the installation of Deer Crossing Warning signs?
• What if road striping paint gets on my car?

Why doesn't the County install "Children at Play" signs?

Montgomery County does not post "Children at Play" signs for several reasons:

"Children at Play" signs are not approved for use by the "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices", the national standard for traffic control signs. The generic message of these signs does not command sufficient motorists attention since motorists are generally aware of the increased possibility of children playing in adjacent yards and sidewalks when they are driving on any residential street.

"Children at Play" signs are inappropriate for public streets since they convey the suggestion that playing on the street is acceptable behavior, which it is not. Additionally, the installation of this sign may lead parents and children to believe they have an added degree of protection which these sign do not provide.

When specific pedestrian generators (such as schools, playgrounds, parks, etc.) exist, appropriate warning signs are posted to inform motorists of these pedestrian generators.

What are the guidelines for the installation of Deer Crossing Warning Signs?

To ensure that posted deer warning signs maintain a level of credence, the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) only posts deer warning signs at locations where there has been a history of documented deer/auto collisions, and where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or greater. If these concurrent conditions are met, a request for Deer Crossing signs can be submitted for consideration to the Division of Traffic and Engineering Services.
 

What if road striping paint gets on your car?

Montgomery County, like many other local jurisdictions applies waterborne latex-based traffic paint. If you notice a traffic line painting operation while driving through an area, it is your responsibility to be observant of the temporary traffic controls in place (warning signs, follow-up trucks, traffic cones, etc) and to pay special attention when attempting to cross over freshly painted lines. Traffic paint usually dries to the touch within a few minutes and should not track afterwards. If paint gets on your car's finish after crossing over fresh paint, proceed to a high-pressure car wash as soon as possible. Most paint will come off if action is taken within the first hour. If paint is allowed to set, try dabbing rubbing (denatured) alcohol on the hardened traffic paint (make certain that your car finish will not be damaged by the alcohol, by trying it first in an inconspicuous place) and let it sit for a few minutes before running your car through the car wash. It may take more than one application.