Sign Policies

Stop Signs

It is generally believed that the installation of stop signs at an intersection will result in a decrease in the number of accidents. The installation of stop signs is a very effective traffic control device when used under the right conditions. It is intended to help drivers and pedestrians determine who has the right of way.

However, the installation of unwarranted stop signs can actually be a detriment to the safe operation of an intersection. Stop signs are installed in compliance with the Wisconsin Statutes and the Federal Highway Administration Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.

Warrants for Stop Signs

  • An unsignalized intersection in a signalized area.
  • Intersection of a less important road with a main road where application of the normal right of way rule is unduly hazardous.
  • Other intersections where a combination of high speed, restricted view and a serious accident record indicates a need for stop control by a stop sign.
  • Streets entering a through highway or street.

Warrants for Multi-Way Stop Signs

  • An accident problem, as indicated by five or more reported accidents of a type susceptible of correction by a multi-way stop installation in a 12-month period. Such accidents include right and left turn collisions as well as right-angle collisions.
  • Minimum traffic volumes must meet the following standards:
    • The combined vehicular and pedestrian volume from the minor street or highway must average at least 200 units per hour for the same eight hours, with an average delay to minor street vehicular traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle during the maximum hour.
    • The total vehicular volume entering the intersection from all approaches must average at least 500 vehicles per hour for any eight hours of an average day.
    • When the 85-percentile approach speed of the major street traffic exceeds 40 miles per hour, the minimum vehicular volume warrant is 70% of the above requirements.
  • Where traffic signals are warranted and urgently needed, the multi-way stop is an interim measure that can be installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made for the signal installation.

All requests for stop sign installation must be made in writing to the Kenosha County Director of Public Works and are subject to approval by the Kenosha County Highway and Parks Committee, the Kenosha County Board and the Kenosha County Executive.

Signs in Highway Right of Way

Wisconsin Statutes prohibit all signs except official traffic signs from being placed within the right-of-way of any street or highway. Prohibited signs include but are not limited to advertising, realty, political, rummage sale and directional. Any prohibited sign found by the Kenosha County Division of Highways will be removed and disposed of in accordance with the Political, Advertising and Unpermitted Signs in County Rights-of-Way procedure.