Section 212.101. Official signs

(a) Approved signs. Official traffic signs are identified in the Pennsylvania Handbook of Approved Signs (Department Publication 236M) which includes sign standards that show the shape, color, dimensions, legends, application and placement of official signs. When sign messages are required other than those provided for in the Pennsylvania Handbook of Approved Signs, the Bureau of Highway Safety and Traffic Engineering may authorize new sign standards. When approved by the Secretary, through the Chief, Traffic Engineering and Operations Division, these signs shall also be regarded as official signs.

(b) Existing nonstandard signs. Official signs must replace existing signs of nonstandard design or application as rapidly as is economically feasible.

(c) Unacceptable variations. Variations in the proportion of symbols, stroke width and height of letters, width of borders or layout of word or symbol messages will be sufficient cause for the Secretary to order the removal or replacement of a sign, but will not be a defense in prosecution for violation of any mandatory traffic control provided by the sign.