When is a traffic control plan mandatory in highway work zones?

A traffic control plan is mandatory in highway work zones when work is performed within the roadway or right-of-way that affects traffic flow. This requirement is crucial for ensuring safety for both workers and drivers. A well-designed traffic control plan outlines how to direct traffic around the work zone safely, including signage, barriers, and a clear understanding of how vehicles will be rerouted or slowed down to minimize risks of accidents.

Implementing a traffic control plan is not limited to specific times of day or minimal work areas. For instance, while nighttime or peak traffic hours may present unique challenges, the need for a traffic control plan extends to any situation where construction or maintenance activities may impact normal traffic patterns regardless of the time or specific location of the work. Additionally, simply working on shoulder areas does not exempt a project from needing this plan, as any activities affecting traffic, even indirectly, can pose safety concerns. Local law enforcement's requests for a traffic control plan are situational and not a standard requirement. Hence, having a proactive traffic control plan in place is essential whenever work could influence roadway traffic.