UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
corrosion and require breakaway connectors such as slip base connectors or load
concentrating couplers to meet federal regulations. All steel posts should be galvanized prior
to finishing. Provide bituminous coating for post imbedded in concrete and acidic soil.
12.7.2.3. Wood. Wood posts are considerably less expensive than metal posts, but have
problems with maintenance, durability and general appearance. Soil embedded wood posts
do qualify as yielding sign supports under federal regulations. (See Breakaway or Yielding
Sign Supports, paragraph 12.8.)
12.8. Foundations.
12.8.1. Foundation Options.
12.8.1.1. Concrete Footings. The use of concrete footings for all signage is strongly
recommended. The post and panel structures shown in this pamphlet are designed with low
lateral stability in order to reduce material cost. The vertical stability of the sign posts is
therefore critical to the appearance and durability of the signs. This degree of stability can be
achieved only with the use of strong and secure footings.
12.8.1.2. Soil Embedment. Soil mounted sign posts (without concrete foundation collars, soil
bearing plates or anchors) may be used on bases located in areas with minimal frost
penetration, if soil conditions provide strong and secure support for the sign posts. Soil
embedment saves on initial installation costs, but may not be cost effective in the long term
due to maintenance problems.
12.8.1.3. Base Plates. Post sleeves or base plate mounts should be considered for non-
permanent signs such as base morale signs. The posts can be removed or replaced as
required. Temporary covers or inserts should be provided to protect the post sleeves when
not in use. Signs which are likely to sustain frequent damage should also be equipped with
these mounts or with breakaway connectors.
12.8.2. Maintenance. The sign foundation should have a neat appearance. Maintenance of the
area around the base of the sign can be simplified by the use of a gravel trough running the full
width of the base or by the use of low-level planting.
12.9. Breakaway or Yielding Sign Supports.
12.9.1. Usage and Standards. Breakaway or yielding sign supports should be used for all traffic
control signs (including the destination and parking signs described in this pamphlet) placed
within 9 m (30') from the paved edge of the traveled way and for all other signs which are
placed within 3.6 m (12') from the edge of the traveled way (unless they are protected by guard
rails or other means.) The design of these supports must conform to the Standard Specifications
for Structural Supports for Highway Signs, Luminaires and Traffic Signals, published by the
American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
12.9.2. Usage of Connectors. In locations where breakaway or yielding sign supports are
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