Straight Arrow Traffic Control: MUTCD Sizes, “ONLY” Pairing & Overspray Tips

Why Straight Arrow Traffic Control Matters

Straight arrow traffic control is one of the most effective ways to guide drivers and reduce confusion. A well placed straight arrow tells road users exactly what to do, which helps prevent last minute lane changes, sideswipe collisions, and bottlenecks. Whether you are striping a city street, a distribution center, or a busy retail parking lot, clear pavement markings support safety and efficient traffic flow.

Because many jurisdictions follow the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, often called the MUTCD, it is important to choose the right arrow sizes and pair them correctly with the word “ONLY” when a lane is dedicated to a single movement. Getting these details right boosts clarity for drivers and helps keep your project in line with best practices.

This guide explains practical MUTCD size choices, smart “ONLY” pairing, and professional overspray control tips. It also shows how 1-800-Stencil can supply durable, MUTCD friendly arrow and wording stencils that deliver crisp, repeatable results.

MUTCD Basics for Straight Arrows and “ONLY”

What the MUTCD Says in Plain Language

The MUTCD recognizes pavement word and symbol markings as key communication tools. Lane use arrows show which maneuvers are allowed from a given lane. The word “ONLY” is used with an arrow to indicate that a lane is reserved for a specific movement. For straight arrow traffic control, that means you would pair a straight arrow with “ONLY” when a lane must be used for straight movement and nothing else.

Two important points stand out. The word “ONLY” should not appear by itself, and it should be used only when the restriction is exclusive. If a driver may travel straight or turn right from the same lane, a straight arrow by itself is appropriate, or a combination arrow that shows both movements. If the lane is straight only, the straight arrow should be paired with “ONLY.”

Always verify current requirements with your state or city DOT since local standards can refine MUTCD guidance. The ideas below reflect common industry practice and will help you plan the right layout for your site.

Recommended Sizes by Environment

Choosing the right size for straight arrow traffic control depends on the speed of the facility, driver approach distance, and the width of the lane. The following ranges reflect common practice that aligns with MUTCD principles for symbol and word heights.

• Parking lots and low speed private facilities: Straight arrows from 24 inches to 72 inches long are common. The word “ONLY” often uses 12 inch to 24 inch tall letters. These sizes provide clear guidance without overwhelming narrow aisles.

• City streets and urban arterials: Lane use straight arrows commonly run about 8 feet long. The word “ONLY” typically uses letters 6 feet to 8 feet tall. Many jurisdictions require two arrows in an exclusive use lane and at least one “ONLY.”

• Freeways and high speed roads: Extra long arrows improve visibility, often 12 feet to 16 feet. The word “ONLY” typically uses 10 foot letters. Spacing and repetition increase, giving drivers time to react at higher speeds.

If you need to match an exact standard detail, 1-800-Stencil can cut your straight arrow and “ONLY” stencils to the precise dimensions specified by your agency. That means what you place on the ground will match your plan set and pass inspection with confidence.

When to Pair a Straight Arrow With “ONLY”

Pair a straight arrow with “ONLY” when a lane is reserved exclusively for going straight. Do not add “ONLY” if the lane allows straight and another movement. Examples include:

• Approach lanes to a signalized intersection where the middle lane is straight only and the left lane is left turn only.

• High volume drive aisle exits from a parking complex where the center lane must proceed straight to avoid conflict with turn lanes.

• Highway drop lanes that continue as through lanes while adjacent lanes peel off for ramps.

If your plan calls for two permitted maneuvers from the same lane, use the correct combination arrow stencil instead of straight plus “ONLY.” This avoids confusing or misleading drivers.

Placement and Spacing Tips

Good placement is just as important as choosing the right size. The general goal is to let drivers see, read, and react with time to spare. Keep these practical tips in mind for straight arrow traffic control:

1. Use two arrows in exclusive lanes: For lanes reserved for straight movement only, place at least two straight arrows in sequence when approach length allows. This emphasizes the restriction and reinforces the message as drivers approach the intersection.

2. Place “ONLY” with the arrow: Position the word “ONLY” with the straight arrow, typically downstream of the arrow in the direction of travel. This follows the rule that messages are read as drivers approach. Keep a consistent gap between the arrow point and the top of the letters.

3. Use consistent gaps: In parking lots, a gap of 6 inches to 18 inches between the arrow and “ONLY” is common. On public roads, a gap of 1 foot to 3 feet is typical. Match your local standard details whenever they are available.

4. Respect word spacing: For multi word messages, common practice is to separate words by a space of roughly four times the letter height. While “ONLY” is a single word, keeping consistent proportions around it helps maintain a professional look.

5. Place the last arrow close to the stop line: On low speed approaches, the final arrow is often placed about 50 to 100 feet in advance of the stop bar, with another arrow further upstream. On higher speed approaches, the distances increase. Always follow your DOT’s layout sheets.

6. Center your markings: Keep the arrow shaft and the word centered in the lane. For wide lanes, some agencies prefer slightly larger arrows to preserve visibility.

Because details vary by agency, treat these numbers as planning ranges and confirm with current standards. If you need help converting your plan set into a matched stencil kit, 1-800-Stencil can turn measurements into cut ready files and ship quickly.

Overspray Control and Crisp Edges

Tools and Materials That Make a Difference

Crisp edges project professionalism and help markings last longer because there is less thin, feathered paint at the edges. The right stencil material and setup will keep overspray in check:

• Stencil material: LDPE stencils offer flexibility and value for general use. UHMW stencils provide premium rigidity, flatness, and solvent resistance, ideal for frequent, high volume work.

• Weights and magnets: Weights, low profile magnets on steel decks, or light taping at corners help the stencil sit flat and resist wind lift.

• Overspray shields: Portable spray shields and stencil frames catch bounce back and keep paint off nearby surfaces such as curbs, pavers, and thermoplastic lines.

• Proper paint: Use fast dry traffic paints compatible with your climate and substrate. Waterborne, solvent based, MMA, and epoxy systems each have specific application windows.

• Right spray tip and pressure: For airless equipment, use the tip size recommended by the paint manufacturer and keep pressures only as high as needed to atomize. Lower pressure reduces bounce and fog.

Pro Techniques for Cleaner Results

1. Prepare the surface: Sweep, blow, or wash away dust and debris. Dry the surface fully. Paint bonds better and the stencil lies flatter on a clean, dry surface.

2. Test on a scrap area: Check paint viscosity, tip size, and pressure on a piece of cardboard. Adjust before you start the stencil run.

3. Tack coat first: Apply a very light mist through the stencil as a first pass to seal the edges. After a few seconds, add a second, slightly wetter pass. This reduces bleed under the stencil.

4. Keep the gun perpendicular: Hold the gun straight above the opening. Angled spray can drive paint under the stencil edge.

5. Maintain a steady height: Stay within the optimal spray distance for your tip. Too high increases fog and overspray, too low creates runs.

6. Move from inside to out: When possible, direct spray from the center of the stencil outward to avoid forcing paint under the edge.

7. Use light passes: Several light passes are better than one heavy pass. Heavy coats pool and creep under the stencil.

8. Control wind: Shield the area or reschedule when wind gusts can carry fog beyond the stencil. Even small breezes can blur edges.

9. Lift vertically: When you are done, lift the stencil straight up to avoid dragging wet paint.

10. Clean promptly: Wipe LDPE or UHMW stencils before paint fully cures. Dried flakes can create gaps that leak. UHMW releases paint more easily and resists solvents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading paint: Heavy coats lead to runs, puddles, and bleed.

• Loose edges: Unweighted or warped stencils let paint creep underneath. Use weights and store stencils flat.

• Wrong color for the application: On public roads, lane use arrows are typically white. Verify color requirements with your agency.

• Skipping surface prep: Dirt and moisture break adhesion and blur edges.

• Ignoring dry times: Trafficking too soon can track paint and ruin crisp lines.

Choosing the Right Stencil From 1-800-Stencil

1-800-Stencil is a trusted source for straight arrow traffic control solutions. Based in Alsip, Illinois, the company supplies high quality pavement marking stencils for roads, highways, parking lots, bike lanes, airports, and industrial sites. With precision cutting and durable materials like Low Density Polyethylene and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, 1-800-Stencil stencils stand up to repeated use and tough jobsite conditions.

As part of RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, 1-800-Stencil pairs industry leading stencil quality with proven pavement marking paints, beads, and coatings. That means you can get the right stencils plus the compatible paint system from one knowledgeable partner.

Popular Products for Straight Arrow Traffic Control

• Arrow stencils: Straight arrows in common parking lot sizes like 24, 36, 48, and 72 inches, plus roadway lengths such as 8 feet, 12 feet, and 16 feet. Custom lengths cut to your plan are available.

• Wording stencils: “ONLY” in multiple heights for private property as well as 6 foot, 8 foot, and 10 foot letters for public roads. Spacing guides available on request.

• Alphabet and number kits: Create custom messages that match your site plan and speed environment.

• DOT stencils: State and city specific designs that meet agency details for arrows, words, and symbols.

• Handicap and ADA symbols: ADA compliant icons that meet accessibility standards.

• Retail and custom stencils: Chain specific branding, logos, and directional messages.

Why Pros Choose 1-800-Stencil

• Durable materials: LDPE for flexibility and value, UHMW for premium flatness, clean release, and long life.

• Precision and consistency: CNC cutting produces clean edges and accurate repeats across your project.

• Custom capability: Send your detail sheet and get a matched stencil kit that fits your plan exactly.

• All in one support: Through RAE Products, access traffic paint, glass beads, and supplies that work with your stencils.

• Responsive service: Real specialist support for layout questions, shipping timelines, and product selection.

Step by Step: Laying Out a Straight Only Lane

1. Review the plan set: Confirm arrow type, letter height for “ONLY,” placement counts, and spacing distances required by your DOT or internal standard.

2. Gather materials: Straight arrow stencil, “ONLY” stencil, tape or weights, chalk line, measuring tape, airless sprayer or aerosol system, and safety gear.

3. Mark the centerline: Snap a chalk line down the lane center. This keeps the arrow shaft and word centered.

4. Dry fit stencils: Place the straight arrow first, then position “ONLY” downstream with a consistent gap. Verify alignment and spacing with your plan.

5. Prep the surface: Sweep and dry the pavement. If necessary, lightly power wash and allow to dry completely.

6. Mask or shield adjacent markings: Use overspray shields or light masking to protect curbs, thermoplastic lines, or paver edges.

7. Apply a tack coat: Lightly mist paint to seal the stencil edges. Add successive light passes until you reach coverage.

8. Repeat for the second arrow: In exclusive lanes, add the upstream arrow per your plan, maintaining consistent centering and gaps.

9. Lift and inspect: Remove the stencil vertically. Check edges and coverage. Touch up as needed with a fine brush or narrow gun pass.

10. Allow proper dry time: Follow paint manufacturer guidance based on temperature, humidity, and film thickness before opening to traffic.

FAQ: Straight Arrow Traffic Control

• What color should straight arrows be on public roads? White is the standard color for lane use arrows on most public roads. Always verify with your state or city DOT.

• Do I always need to use “ONLY” with a straight arrow? Use “ONLY” when the lane is reserved exclusively for straight travel. If other movements are allowed, use an appropriate arrow without “ONLY,” or a combination arrow.

• What sizes should I choose for a parking lot? Many parking lots use 24 inch to 72 inch arrows and 12 inch to 24 inch “ONLY” letters. Consider lane width, driver approach distance, and visibility.

• What are common roadway sizes? Many agencies use straight arrows about 8 feet long on city streets, and 12 feet to 16 feet long on higher speed roads. “ONLY” letters often run 6 feet, 8 feet, or 10 feet tall. Confirm local standards.

• LDPE or UHMW, which stencil material is better? LDPE offers economy and flexibility for occasional use. UHMW provides superior flatness, longevity, and clean release for daily professional use.

• How do I prevent overspray and bleed? Use a tack coat, keep spray perpendicular, apply multiple light passes, weight the stencil, and control wind. Clean stencils promptly so dried paint does not create leaks.

• Can 1-800-Stencil make a DOT specific arrow kit? Yes. Send your detail sheet and 1-800-Stencil can produce a matching kit, including arrows, “ONLY,” and any required word messages.

Partner With 1-800-Stencil

If you need straight arrow traffic control that looks sharp and lasts, 1-800-Stencil is ready to help. From standard parking lot arrows to full MUTCD size roadway kits, you get durable stencils that make work faster and cleaner. With the backing of RAE Products & Chemicals Corporation, you can source compatible traffic paints and glass beads together with your stencils, which simplifies ordering and improves field results.

Discuss your plan set, select the right sizes, and choose the material that fits your workload. For expert support and fast shipping, contact 1-800-Stencil at 1-800-STENCIL or info@1800stencil.com. Your next project will benefit from clear straight arrow traffic control, smart “ONLY” pairing, and professional overspray control that drivers and inspectors will notice.

Note: This guide summarizes common practices for straight arrow traffic control. Always consult the current MUTCD and your local DOT standards for exact sizes, colors, and placement requirements on public roads.