Sign Bases: Frequently Asked Questions

Sign bases are commonly used where sign mounting on walls or fences is not possible, such as outdoor parking areas. Given their conspicuity, these are a recommended choice when you wish to convey important messages that people must not ignore.

Well-designed, heavy, and sturdy sign bases do not tip over easily. However, tipping can be prevented in several ways, including fixing the bases on the ground with nuts and bolts, attaching weights to the base, and filling sand or water in the portable bases.

Concrete sign bases are heavy and incur a high shipping cost. These don’t create a very pleasing sight and are difficult to move. Easily affected by weather, road salt, vehicular and other impacts, chemicals, etc., concrete bases demand frequent maintenance. These are the reasons why more and more people are moving towards better and more convenient and durable options, such as metal and recycled rubber sign bases.

The MUTCD requires that sign foundations, posts, and mountings be constructed to be able to hold signs in a proper and permanent position while offering reasonable resistance to wind and vandalism. While the authority doesn’t say much about sign bases specifically, it does provide some guidance about sign supports such as wood posts, U-channel steel posts, square or round tube steel posts, and I-beam steel posts. You can find information about the size, placement, and maintenance of these posts here.