What Is a Barricade?
A barricade is a portable device with horizontal rail panels used to warn and guide road users and, in some configurations, to close a road or sidewalk. Barricades come in Type I, Type II, and Type III configurations. Type III barricades, which are the largest, are often used to close a road or walkway, while smaller types help channel traffic or pedestrians.
Last reviewed: June 24, 2026
Why It Matters
Barricades are how a closure is physically and visibly communicated. A clearly barricaded closure keeps drivers and pedestrians from entering a space that is not safe to use.
When a sidewalk is closed, barricades are also what direct people on foot toward the alternate route, so their placement affects accessibility.
Where It Shows Up in the Field
Barricades appear at road and sidewalk closures, at the end of a closed lane, and wherever road users need to be stopped or redirected. They are common at full sidewalk closures in dense Southern California urban areas.
In the field, barricades are expected to match the closure shown on the approved plan, including the type used and where the closure begins.
Common Mistakes
- Using a smaller barricade type where a Type III closure is needed.
- Placing barricades at the closure only, with no advance warning upstream.
- Leaving gaps that let pedestrians or vehicles slip past the closure.
- Closing a sidewalk with barricades but providing no accessible detour.
What to Check Before Work Begins
- That the barricade type matches what the standard and approved plan require for the closure.
- That the closure is continuous, with no easy way around it.
- That advance warning is placed upstream, not only at the barricade line.
- That a pedestrian closure includes a usable, accessible alternate route.
Related Terms
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the types of barricades?
Barricades are grouped as Type I, II, and III by the number and size of rail panels. Type III is the largest and is often used to close a road or sidewalk. Confirm the required type against the current standard and the approved plan.
When is a Type III barricade used?
A Type III barricade is commonly used to close a road or walkway. Whether one is required for a given closure depends on the standard, the situation, and the approved plan.
Do barricades replace advance warning signs?
No. Barricades mark and close the space, but advance warning signs upstream are still needed so road users know about the closure before they reach it.
Need project-specific support?
Work Zone Compliance is an educational resource. Public Ready supports traffic control planning, permit readiness, agency coordination, project-specific sign identification, and equipment sourcing through qualified providers across Southern California.
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