Attachment_B_-_VIS_Templates_.pdf

Visitor Information System Panel Templates for Pedestrian Signage

Attachment B - VIS Templates

PDF can be opened in Adobe Illustrator

April 2023

Harpers Ferry Center Harpers Ferry, WV 25425

HFC_SI@nps.gov

National Park Service | U.S. Department of the Interior

NPS Sign Standards

Most of park signs fall into the Visitor Informa-tion System (VIS) category. VIS signs are designed to provide an attractive and consistent way to present a broad range of messages.

Such information may involve pedestrian or bicycle directions, regulations, safety informa-tion, resource protection messages, entrance fees, and general information. VIS signs may also be used to identify parks (or park areas, features, or facilities) when more monumental identification signs are not required.

Mounting options for VIS signs range from a frame system, single wood or metal posts, carsonsite posts, or something more custom.

Hardware and panel materials are chosen to accommodate local conditions.

The Visitor Information System standard struc-ture is a frame system that can hold sign panels and can accommodate several accessories:

including bulletin cases, brochure distribution

Most of park signs fall into the Visitor Information System (VIS) category. VIS signs are designed to provide an attractive and consistent way to present a broad range of messages.

boxes, registration cabinets, and miscellaneous postings.

Each sign structure can hold a variety of informa-tion, made from an extensive list of materials, including porcelain enamel, fiberglass, high pressure laminate, cut vinyl on metal, or digitally imaged aluminum.

VIS panels are designed to allow content to be easily read and consistent with how viewers are best able to receive and process information at a glance.

a grey and white sign with characteristic NPS black band at the top is mounted in a frame supported by two legs. The sign has a map and trail information and is installed on a sidewalk along a stone wall with the view of the grand canyon behind obscured by trees.

Trailheads can display a lot of information including maps and trail accessibility informa-tion.

A four-sided kiosk structure with a green roof and square stone base on a concrete walkway with a building behind. Two sides of the kiosk are visible, one with a bulletin case containing several miscellaneous postings, the other with an information panel and map.

Kiosks come in all shapes and sizes. This kiosk has a custom designed stone base, frames for panels, bulletin cases for changeable informa-tion, and a roof.

General Guidelines

General guidelines for VIS sign panels:

• Utilize standard sign colors as shown in this document. See additional PDF also.

• Contrast between the type and the background should be a minimum of 70-percent. (Correct use of standard sign colors ensures proper contrast.)

• Text should be no smaller than 30-point at full size. This rule applies to signs viewed at eye level. Type size should be increased for readabili-ty based on viewing distance. For example, a person with low vision may have a hard time reading a plant identification label that is low to the ground with 30-point text; Increase text size accordingly.

• Important messages should be in text 1-inch or greater.

• Use only Frutiger and NPS Rawlinson. Use bold for headings, titles, and important information.

Use bold or Roman/medium weight for body text. Do not use Frutiger Light, Frutiger Black, NPS Rawlinson Book, or NPS Rawlinson Heavy.

• Frutiger Condensed should not be used. NPS Rawlinson Condensed can be be used sparingly.

• Keep tracking (the spacing between letters) between 0 and 50.

• Keep character height and width set to 100%.

• Leading (the measure from the base of one line of text to the base of the next line) must be at least 20-percent greater than the font size (auto setting ensures appropriate leading).

Example: 10-point type on 12-point leading.

Increase when needed.

• Avoid extensive use of italics.

• Use only NPS symbols.

• Text should not extend into margins.

• Text alignment is typically set flush-left. Center text can be used for short messages when left alignment creates an unbalanced appearance.

• Avoid hyphenating words at line breaks.

• Do not use ligatures.

• Use title case (capitalize the first letter of each word) without punctuation for phrases. Use sentence case (Capitalize only the first word) and punctuation for full sentences. In lists of regulations or information, try not to switch back and forth between the two cases.

• When an arrowhead appears on an identity or boundary panel, it must be accompanied by the park name, NPS, and DOI.

• Combine signs to reduce sign clutter. When combining sign layouts, make sure margins and separator lines match.

• Expand any line before resizing to avoid issues with scaling strokes (line thickness).

How to use the templates:

• The information in each panel template is

SAMPLE ONLY.

The text shown is NOT NPS standard messaging

- messages are intended to be edited to suit individual park needs.

Symbols and their accompanying messages can be changed

Determine the purpose of the sign you need, then read through the descriptions to choose the correct type of VIS sign panel.

Open the Template PDF in Adobe Illustrator.

If using symbols, open the NPS Recreation and Prohibtiion Symbols PDF in Adobe Illustrator as well.

• Select the panel layout you intend to adapt, copy it, and paste it into a new Illustrator file.

You can work in scale (easiest to do if you have the CAD Tools plug in) or you can scale the sign panel layout up to full size now. Scale the panel to what you think feels appropriate for the location where it will be installed, then check to make sure all text on the panel is at least 30pts or greater. If not, enlarge the text or enlarge the entire panel.

Change out the text and symbols to suite your needs. Note that Danger signs must say DANGER in the black overbar. NPS and DOI must appear along side the arrowhead.

Otherwise, text edits are up to you.

If you have questions, need a custom symbol, or need help with sign designs, email your request to HFC_SI@nps.gov.

General Guidelines

You can use more or fewer messages/symbols than shown in the templates, just adjust the size of the panel accordingly.

If the messages don’t fit, make the panel longer or wider as necessary, just be sure to avoid long lines of text which are hard to read.

If you need mounting holes in specific locations, add them. 1/4” or 3/8” holes are typical for VIS signs.

Save your file as a PDF.

Writing for VIS Signs Keep messages very brief. Visitors will not stop to read all the information in a long, wordy sign.

Use symbols and short phrases for important messages so that information can be gleaned at a glance.

• Avoid jargon - don’t write regulations in legal-sounding language and don’t list the section of the CRF a regulation comes from.

Visitors just won’t read it.

The thin line separating different sections of text slightly overhangs text and symbols.

Visito

Tickets re All tours b the Visito

Histo ARE For Y

Extreme h injury or be cited

VIS Sign Panel Materials VIS Signs can be constructed using any suitable professional outdoor-grade material. Common materials include aluminum (painted, powder-coated graphics, or direct print), HPL, and fiberglass.

• Materials to Avoid: Printed vinyl on aluminum, laminated paper and other materials with a very short lifespan (unless using for less than 30 days).

• Panel Backs: When practical, have the backs of sign panels painted to match NPS Brown or the color of the post(s) they will be mounted to.

• UV Protection Ask about UV resistance of the sign material and inks. For signs printed on aluminum, ask for a protective UV resistant topcoat.

• Matte Finish: Avoid glare in the outdoors.

• Corners: If a sign is not going to be encased in a frame, corners should be slightly rounded to avoid sharp edges. Sample language: "3/8" radius corners, all edges smooth."

To give the appearance of clean flush-left alignment, text and other elements intrude into the margin slightly as shown:

Mem Nat Yos Was Cen Ope

Vertical strokes of letters should align with the margin edge.

Serifs extend into the margin to allow vertical strokes to align.

Angular letters (Y, W, etc.) and round letters (C, O, etc.) are placed slightly to the left to appear aligned flush left.

Recreation Symbols align with the margin edge.

Round prohibition symbols are placed slightly to the left, just like round letters.

Alignment

General Guidelines Continued

Seperator Line Alignment

VIS Sign Structures

A. Existing Structure - ex. fence post, boat dock, or gate

B. Post and Panel - ex. painted aluminum, weathering or galvanized steel, or wood

C. Standard Upright VIS Frames - See VIS Hardware Manual which includes other standard options like kiosks, roofs, footers, brochure holders, etc.

D. Trailside - See VIS Hardware Manual

E. Fingerboards

F. Carsonite Post

G. Wood or Aluminum post with flush panel -potential to have a panel on all four sides of post

Mounting VIS Signs VIS signs can be mounted however necessary to achieve their desired function. They can be mounted into a frame system (details in the VIS Hardware Manual), on single wood or metal posts, carsonsite posts, or some-thing custom. Be considerate of maintenance require-ments and costs for custom mounts.

When purchasing a VIS sign panel, tell the vendor if mounting holes are needed and where to locate them (or add them to your drawing if you have very specific needs).

If a panel will be installed into a frame, check the margins to make sure important information is not going to be covered by the frame. Also verify the panel size - panels installed into typical VIS frames should be trimmed 1/8” below nominal dimensions so that they slide easily into the frame.

Whenever possible, post and frame mounted signs should be mounted so that the panel bottom is 32” above ground level. Wall mounted signs should be hung 60” from the ground to the middle of the panel.

A. B. C. D. E. F. G.

VIS Sign Mounting Examples

Boundary

These small boundary signs are used in places other than main entrances to let pedestrians know they are entering a national park.

There are two main options for VIS boundary signs:

The first style is similar to an identity sign with “ENTERING” or “LEAVING” added right below the overbar. It can be mounted however is most appropriate for the site. The panel can be combined with other signs. Adding a regulations panel section helps visitors see what rules are in place within the park that are different from where they’re entering.

The second style can be used on carsonite posts, fence posts, or along a tree line.

Standard colors for boundary panels are the identity green overbar with a gray panel or an entire brown panel. Other panel colors can be considered when appropriate. Arrowheads can be the full flat color or 2 color version.

This is the NPS standard design for carsonite boundary markers. It does not include the “Department of the Interior” due to size of constrains of carsonite posts.

Pantone BLK4 Boundary Panel

Pantone 449 Boundary Overbar Standard Identity Colors

Pantone 7531 Boundary Panel Standard Identity Colors

Pantone 1615 Boundary Panels

BO

U

N D

A

RY

ENTERING

NPS

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Crater Lake National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

LEAVING

Backcountry Office

Caldera Overlook

Crater Rim Trail

0.1

Waldron Ledge 0.4

0.4

Byron Ledge Trail

Regulations Remain on the trails

No Drones

DANGER

Volcanic Fumes are hazardous to your heath and may be life threatening.

Do not enter this area if you are a person at risk:

Respiratory Problems

Heart Problems

Pregnant

Infants and Children

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

Arrowhead options:

12” x 12“ 12” x 12“

12” x 12“ 12” x 12“

3” x 16“ 3” x 16“

BO

U

N D

A

RY

ENTERING

NPS

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

BO

U

N D

A

RY

LEAVING

NPS

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Crater Lake National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

Hot Springs National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

Crater Lake National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

LEAVING

Hot Springs National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

LEAVING

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

DANGER, WARNING, and CAUTION

These signs warn visitors of dangers and hazards. The level of the danger dictates the color of the panel. A red panel is only used for DANGER signs. A yellow panel is used for WARNING and CAUTION signs.

Both types of signs have a black header. The main title in the header uses Frutiger Bold in all-caps.

DANGER signs only use the word DANGER in the header and all text is set in Frutiger.

WARNING and CAUTION signs may use the words WARNING or CAUTION alone or with a secondary heading (keep out, area closed, stay on trail, etc.) Secondary headings can be in all-caps or title case.

WARNING and CAUTION signs can use alternate main headings, if desired.

Body text on WARNING and CAUTION signs is set in Rawlinson or Frutiger.

These signs are not used as directionals unless directing to an emergency exit.

Prohibition symbols need a thin white outline around their red circle to ensure they contrast with the panel background color.

These panels may include images. Text must not go over images.

Like all VIS signs, these signs can be combined with other VIS signs, including directionals, regulations, etc.

Pantone 485 Danger

Pantone 124 Caution

OPEN DAILY

Gallery

Trail

Backcountry Office

Caldera Overlook

Crater Rim Trail

0.1

Waldron Ledge 0.4

0.4

Byron Ledge Trail

Regulations Remain on the trails

No Drones

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

DANGER

Volcanic Fumes are hazardous to your heath and may be life threatening.

Do not enter this area if you are a person at risk:

Respiratory Problems

Heart Problems

Pregnant

Infants and Children

CAUTION

No water available on trail

DANGER

AREA CLOSED

For Your Safety Extreme hazards may cause injury or death.

Violators will be cited and fined.

DANGER

Volcanic Fumes are hazardous and may be life threatening

Do not enter this area if you are a person at risk:

DANGER

Do Not Enter

Respiratory Problems

Heart Problems

Pregnant

Infants and Children

DANGER

AREA CLOSED

For Your Safety

Extreme hazards may cause injury or death. Violators will be cited and fined.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Sample showing park name and arrowhead for instances where strong NPS Identity would be helpful to establish authority.

When an arrowhead is on a sign, the words “National Park Service” and “Department of the Interior” must also appear beside the arrowhead. The park name is optional.

REMOVAL OF THIS SIGN IS ILLEGAL AND MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO OTHERS

Aggressive black bears have been observed in this area

AREA CLOSED

Black Bear Habitat

If You See a Bear:

Back away slowly and move away from the area.

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Report all black bear sightings to the nearest park ranger or call:

Saguaro East Rincon Mountain Visitor Center 520-733-5153

Leave your name and phone number.

If a Bear Approaches:

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Face the bear, back away slowly; do not run.

Stand tall, appear large, wave arms or jacket.

Group together, pick up small children.

Fight back aggressively if the bear attacks.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Travel beyond this point is prohibited.

Area beyond this sign is prone to sudden glacier outburst floods which may result in severe injury or death.

Kenai Fjords National Park

DO NOT ENTER

For Your Safety Extreme hazards may cause injury or death.

Violators will be cited and fined.

AREA CLOSED

All area beyond this point closed to public use and travel because of emergency conditions.

WARNING

AREA CLOSED

Hazardous Cliffs

HAZARDOUS

CLIFFS

AREA

CLOSED

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

CAUTION

Unstable and undercut cliffs. Approach at your own risk.

Beware of steam vents earth cracks

CAUTION

STAY ON TRAILS

CAUTION

STAY ON TRAILS

NO LIFEGUARD

ON DUTY

For your safety, please swim only in recommended areas.

Samples showing park name and arrowhead for instances where

When an arrowhead is on a sign, the words “National Park Service” and “Department of the Interior” must also appear beside the arrowhead. The park name is optional.

CAUTION

AREA CLOSED

For Your Safety Extreme hazards may cause injury or death.

Violators will be cited and fined.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Use caution when accessing this area.

The Exit Glacier Outwash Area is prone to sudden glacial outburst flood events.

WARNING

Kenai Fjords National Park

REMOVAL OF THIS SIGN IS ILLEGAL AND MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO OTHERS

CAUTION

Black Bear Habitat

Prevent Encounters:

Hike in a group, keep children in sight and close by, make noise.

Keep a clean camp, use bear-proof boxes, follow other precautions for camping in bear country.

Never approach or feed any wildlife.

If You See a Bear:

Back Away slowly and move away from the area.

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Report all black bear sightings to the nearest park ranger or call:

Saguaro East Rincon Mountain Visitor Center 520-733-5153

Leave your name and phone number.

If a Bear Approaches:

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Face the bear, back away slowly; do not run.

Stand tall, appear large, wave arms or jacket.

Group together, pick up small children.

Fight back aggressively if the bear attacks.

Bars may act aggressively if they are startled, conditioned to eating human food, or when protecting their young.

REMOVAL OF THIS SIGN IS ILLEGAL AND MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO OTHERS

WARNING

Black Bear Habitat

If You See a Bear:

Back Away slowly and move away from the area.

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Report all black bear sightings to the nearest park ranger or call:

Saguaro East Rincon Mountain Visitor Center 520-733-5153

Leave your name and phone number.

If a Bear Approaches:

Make noise so the bear knows you are there.

Face the bear, back away slowly; do not run.

Stand tall, appear large, wave arms or jacket.

Group together, pick up small children.

Fight back aggressively if the bear attacks.

Black bears have been observed at close range in this area.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text

18” x 18“ minimum 18” x 18“ minimum

Regulation and Informational

Regulation and information panels inform and help keep visitors and park resources safe.

Regulation panels have a light tan background with black text and a brown header with white text. Text in the over bar is Frutiger bold. The main text on regulation panels is typically NPS Rawlinson but Frutiger may be used.

Symbols communicate information at a glance and in many cases transcend language, making them helpful to visitors who are not fluent in English. Use symbols whenever possible.

List recreational symbols first followed by prohibition symbols.

These panels may include images. Text must not go over images.

The word “Regulations” in the overbar can be substituted with a short phase. Examples are as No Smoking, Area Closed, the area’s name, Notice, etc.

The brown header can be replaced with a black overbar that includes the park name, NPS|DOI, and the arrowhead.

We recommend using the arrowhead with the park’s name on panels when it is unclear if the visitor is inside a park boundary.

Pantone Warm Gray 2 Regulation Panels

Pantone 1615 Regulations Overbar

OPEN DAILY

Gallery

Trail

Backcountry Office

Caldera Overlook

Crater Rim Trail

0.1

Waldron Ledge 0.4

0.4

Byron Ledge Trail

Regulations Remain on the trails

No Drones

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

DANGER

Volcanic Fumes are hazardous to your heath and may be life threatening.

Do not enter this area if you are a person at risk:

Respiratory Problems

Heart Problems

Pregnant

Infants and Children

Regulations

Do Not Feed the Wild Ponies

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Beach Access

Pedestrian Access

No Vehicles

No Pets

Please be respectful of delicate park resources.

Thin black line separating introductory text from the rest of the panel spans the width of the panel. The line overhangs text, extending into the margin.

Equal Margins No text in margins.

Have you ever noticed a one inch square looks larger than a one inch circle? Although they are the same width and height, the circle takes up less space, so it appears smaller.

For this reason, round prohibition symbols should be slightly taller and wider than square recreation symbols so that they appear to be uniform in size. It is not an exact science, but prohibition symbols usually need to be about 10% larger to give the appearance that they are equal in size to recreation symbols.

Lines between regulations extend slightly beyond text edges but do not extend into the spaces between symbols

Prohibition symbols have a thin white outline.

incorrect sizing correct sizing

All area beyond this point closed to public use.

AREA

CLOSED

AREA

CLOSEDAREA CLOSED

Help Protect Park Resources

Remain on Designated Trail

AREA

CLOSED

More information on why it is important to protect park resources. Revegetation project in progress.

Help Protect Park Resources

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive

Regulations

Include a message here about why it is important drones are not flown in parks.

No Drones Please place extinguished cigerettes in container provided.

Designated Smoking Area

Designated Smoking Area

No Smoking

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Regulations

Remain on the trail.

Pedestrians only, no bikes.

No horses.

No Pets

Shoreline Closed

Pedestrians

Vehicles

Pets

Beach Access

Pedestrian Access

No Vehicles

No Pets

No Kites

Please be respectful of delicate park resources.

and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Pets must be on leash.

No campfires.

No camping.

No personal watercraft.

Soundside Access Point

Beach driving permit required. Drive only on designated routes.

Pets must be on a six-foot leash at all times.

All fireworks prohibited.

Beach Fire Permit Required.

Extinguish all fires using water.

No fires from 10 pm to 6 am.

Violators are subject up to $5,000 fine and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months.

In case of emergency, dial 911.

To report a violation, dial 252-473-3444.

No camping on the beach

Beach Regulations Observe all posted safety and wildlife protection closures.

Regulations

Do Not Feed the Wild Ponies

No open containers of alcoloic beverages inside motor vehicles, including pickup truck beds. Spirituous liquors and fortified wine prohibited.

and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Do Not Drink This water is for goats. It is not safe for human consumption

Goat Barn Regulations

Remember to Wash Your Hands

No Feeding Animals

No Food or Drink

No Pets

No Smoking

12" 6"

18"

12"

Overbar

VIS Panel Architecture

Main Panel

Although no one knows for sure how Fire Island got its name, one story says it’s for poison ivy’s fiery fall colors.

Nature’s balance ensures there is enough food for wildife in all seasons.

Historic Coast Guard Station Dock

Authorized Vehicles and Boats Only

Public Pedestrian Use Permitted

Yield to Official Use when Requested

No Public Mooring

Even one careless step can begin to destroy a sand dune.

Walking on a dune crushes the plant’s roots which lie just below the surface and anchor the sand. Winds will blow away unanchored sand causing a “blow out” or hole in the dune.

For your safety, please swim only in recommended areas.

Rip currents and rough surf make some areas unsafe for swimming.

Wildlife fed by humans lose their natural wild behavior, exposing them to potential harm from dogs, cars, and poachers.

Never feed or approach wild animals.

Stay on trails and boardwalks.

Avoid brushing against plants and grasses.

Use insect repellent.

Check your body for ticks after being outdoors.

Remove ticks as soon as you find them.

Notify your doctor if a tick is embedded in your skin.

Poison ivy covers much of Fire Island. It can be found in a variety of forms ranging from low-lying creepers to thick tree-like vines.

Its roots help keep the dunes from blowing away. Its leaves are an important food source for deer and other animals and its waxy winter berries are eaten by many birds.

All parts of the plant exude oil that can irritate skin. Upon contact, wash immediately with soap or swab with alcohol.

No bike riding on the boardwalk.

Please walk your bike.

Please Stay on the Boardwalk

Leaves of Three, Let It Be

Enjoy the Beaches SafelyAvoid Ticks Regulations

Stay on the boardwalk.

Take your trash with you when you leave.

Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.

No bicycles.

Stay off the dunes.

Do not feed wildlife.

Metal detectors are prohibited.

No open fires.

Samples showing park name and arrowhead for instances where

When an arrowhead is on a sign, the words “National Park Service” and “Department of the Interior” must also appear beside the arrowhead. The park name is optional.

Keep Off Dunes No vehicles or foot traffic beyond this point.

Dunes are important habitat and provide natural flood control.

The plants that hold them together are easily damaged.

Please keep off the dunes.

Keep Off Dunes No vehicles or foot traffic beyond this point.

Dunes are important habitat and provide natural flood control.

The plants that hold them together are easily damaged.

Please keep off the dunes.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

24” x 24“

NPS Identity at the top of the panel Park Name

NPS|DOI

Arrowhead

12” x 12“

NPS Identity at the bottom of the panel Park Name

NPS|DOI

Arrowhead

12” x 12“

NPS Identity at the bottom of the panel

NPS|DOI

Arrowhead

Sea turtles usually nest at night.

Hatchlings emerge after dark and rely on natural light reflecting off the ocean to find their way to the water. Light from human activities can fatally disorient hatchlings.

All species of sea turtles and their nests are protected under the

Endangered Species Act.

What YOU Can Do To Help

Please stay out of posted turtle nest sites.

Never approach a nesting female.

Do not shine any lights on nesting turtles or emerging hatchlings.

Build campfires well away from posted nest sites.

Turn off all unnecessary lights near the beach.

Report any turtle activity to the National Park Service.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore established beach closures to protect several species of sea turtles from disturbance.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Protecting Sea Turtles

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive

Directionals

Directional signs guide visitors around the park. Visitors look for these panels when trying to locate facilities and features.

Directionals display destination names, arrows, mileage, symbols, and other information important to navigation.

Destinations in different directions are separated by white lines and are typically listed in this order: straight, left, right.

Directional panels are typically brown with white text.

Other panel colors can be considered when appropriate.

VIS directional signs use the pedestrian arrow which has rounded ends and fits in a square as shown here.

Directionals can be mounted on posts, in frames, or using fingerboards.

Frames and posts are suitable for double sided signs (2 panels, back to back). Round or square 6x6 or 8x8 posts can be used with sign panels the same width as the post, mounted on up to 4 sides of the post.

Fingerboards usually have a pointed edge that points in the direction of the destination. The typical height of a finger-board post is 9’ from ground to bottom of lowest board.

Fingerboards must be high enough that people will not run into them or be able to reach up and dangle from them.

Because the panels are well above eye level, the size of the text must be adjusted to suit the viewing distance and follow ABA guidelines. Before fabricating, it is recommend-ed to print full-size examples and view them at mounting height to verify legibility. A round post is recommended over a square post because placement of the fingerboards can be more easily adjusted to align with the angles of the intersec-tions of trails and sidewalks.

Fi n g b o ar d e xa m p le is n o t to s ca le

Pantone 1615 Directional Panels

Picnic Area 100 ft

Potomac River 250 ft

Overlook 300 ft

Visitor Center 50 ft

Backcountry Office

Caldera Overlook

Crater Rim Trail

0.1

Waldron Ledge 0.4

0.4

Byron Ledge Trail

Regulations Remain on the trails

No Drones

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

ENTERING

DANGER

Volcanic Fumes are hazardous to your heath and may be life threatening.

Do not enter this area if you are a person at risk:

Respiratory Problems

Heart Problems

Pregnant

Infants and Children

Other colors can be used on directional panels if needed. Colors should compliment park landscape.

OPEN DAILY

Gallery

Trail and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Visitor Center

Ramp to Historic House

Tickets required.

All tours begin at the Visitor Center

Historic House Restrooms

Visitor Parking

Glassy Mountain Trail

Goat Barn

Glassy Mountain Trail

Restrooms

Visitor Parking

All Tours Begin at the Visitor Center

.75 mi

.5 mi

Varnum’s Quarters Picnic Area

Betzwood Picnic Area Schuylkill River Trail and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Decorative elements, such as custom illustrations, can be added to directional panels.

Canyon Rim

Restrooms

Visitor Center

Visitor Center

Ramp to Historic House

Tickets required.

All tours begin at the Visitor Center.

Turn Around For Visitor Center

Ramp to Historic House and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

OPEN DAILY

Gallery

Trail

Backcountry Office

Caldera Overlook

Crater Rim Trail

0.1

Waldron Ledge 0.4

0.4

Byron Ledge Trail

Byron Ledge Trail

To Pu'u Pua'i

Devastation Trail

Visitor Center 0.7

Jaggar Museum 1.8

Fingerboards can have boards on all sides of the post.

The board is shaped into a point and used as the arrow to point in the direction of the destination.

Use this version if you are using one of the templates below but to not have symbols or distance for one of the boards to keep size of boards consistant

Destination Only - 36” x 6”

Destination with symbol and distance options - 36” x 8”

Note the above templates are in 1” = 1’ - 0“. To use at full size, enlarge 1200%. These templates uses 2” visual text. Use this template as is or follow ABA guidelines if altering the template.

Finger boards have limited space. The combination of text with symbols and distance may not work in all cases. An additional 6” wide panel can be added to the post which could incorporate more information.

Templates above are recommended to be used at 9’ - 10‘ from ground to the bottom of the lowest board. Destination name at this viewing height is recommended to be 2 inches, this assumes a viewing distance of 15’ or less. Mounting panels any higher than 11’ or at az viewing distance of more than 15” the text may need to increase. Follow ABA Guidelines section 703.5.5 if altering templates.

Picnic Area 100 ft

Potomac River 250 ft

Overlook 300 ft

Visitor Center 50 ft

Regulations

Do Not Feed Wild Ponies

No Vehicles

No Smoking

Picnic Area 100 ft

Visitor Center

Day Use Area 100 ft

Visitor Center

Potomac River

Picnic Area 100 ft

Visitor Center

Day Use Area 100 ft

Visitor Center

Potomac River

CAUTION

No water available on trail

Not an Exit

Please Wait Here

Incidentals

Sometimes a small simple sign is all that is needed to convey just a sprinkling of information.

There are many ways to use colors, fonts, lines, etc. as you can see below, but try to maintain consistency with the choices you make for signs throughout your park.

One symbol with text

Simple phrases - Text Only

Campsite ExamplesOne Symbol only

Do Not Enter

Hours of Operation:

9 am to 5 pm

Hours of Operation:

9 am to 5 pm

Do Not Climb on Cannons

Passes not sold here.

Park passes must be purchased at the fort.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

8 25 16

Please Do Not Block Door

Staff Only

Do Not Feed the Wild Ponies

Small Identifiers Maximum Occupancy

Thick walls on all sides protected the gunpowder during bombardment.

Powder Magazine

Water Pump popcorn-covered stalagmites

Fairyland popcorn-covered stalagmites

Fairyland

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Western Camel Camelops hesternus

Adult Female

Mammoth Mammuthus columbi

Juvenile

Maximum Occupancy

Maximum Occupancy

NPS Structural Fire Program adopted the International Fire Code (IFC) in DO-58: Structural Fire Management in January 2022. In Section 1004.9 of IFC, the occupant load is required to be posted as follows:

Every room or space that is an assembly occupancy shall have the occupant load of the room or space posted in a conspicuous place, near the main exit or exit access doorway from the room or space, for the intended configurations.

State Building Codes vary, check local codes for compliance.

CONFERENCE

ROOM

THEATER

Visual and Tactile Signage

Visual and tactile requirements apply to both interior and exterior signs labeling permanent rooms and spaces.

The NPS follows the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards.

https://www.access-board.gov/aba/chapter/ch07/#a703

Signs should use braille, upper case raise text in Frutiger, and have a non-glare finish. Characters shall contrast with their background with either light characters on a dark background or dark characters on a light background. Contrast shall be 70% or greater. Other color combinations, than shown, that have appropriate contrast can be used if they better match the space.

Raised characters and braille on signs must be located 48 inches minimum above the finish floor or ground surface, measured from the baseline of the lowest tactile character, and 60 inches maximum above the finish floor or ground surface, measured from the baseline of the highest tactile character. A clear floor space 18 inches minimum by 18 inches minimum must be centered on the tactile characters.

Braille located below entire raised text.

Unified English Braille (UEB) or Grade II Contracted braille, same color as panel background.

Letter height should be 5/8” min - 2” max

Tactile letters must be 3/8” min from borders and raised decorative elements

Character spacing is measured between the two closest points of adjacent characters (excluding word spaces) and should be 1/8” to 4x stroke width.

line space is 135% min - 170% max of the raised character height

This template is drawn in 1/2 scale and uses the letter height and line spacing listed. To achieve the correct letter spacing for tactile letters for this font and letter height the tracking was set to 50 pt. To use at full size enlarge 200%.

If letter height, letter spacing, or line height needs to be adjusted follow ABA guidelines to alter template.

Two line - 8” x 4” - 1/2 Scale

One line - 8” x 3” - 1/2 Scale

3/8” required minimum from tactile characters and any raised borders and decorative elements on all sides.

3/4”

1-1/8” 150% of

Character Height

Note the above templates are in 1/2 scale. To use at full size, enlarge 200%. Use this template as is or follow ABA guidelines if altering the template.

HEY

YOU

5/8” Raised Prismatic Characters* 68pt Frutiger 55 Roman Leading range: 64 - 80pt Tracking range: 40 - 160

*Actual hight slightly over 5/8” to accommodate reduction in letter height caused by prismatic shape.

HEY

YOU

1” Raised Prismatic Characters 103pt Frutiger 55 Roman Leading range: 98 - 122pt Tracking range: 20 - 160

HEY

YOU

HEY

YOU1.5” Raised Prismatic Characters

155pt Frutiger 55 Roman Leading range: 146 - 183pt Tracking range: 0 - 200

2” Raised Prismatic Characters 205pt Frutiger 55 Roman Leading range: 195 - 244pt Tracking range: 0 - 200

Notes

Guidelines listed comply with ABA Section 703.

Leading and tracking values may be interpolated for text heights between 5/8” and 2”. Text heights outside this range are not compliant.

Frutiger 55 Roman is recommended. Frutiger 45 Light meets ABA standards for tactile characters but is not ideal for people who read by sight. Frutiger 65 Bold and above are too thick to meet ABA requirements for tactile characters.

Specify 1/16” raised prismatic characters to ensure 1/32” ABA minimum height is achieved/exceeded.

Ensure 3/8” free space around all text and symbols.

1/16”

Guidelines for Raised Characters in Frutiger

Permanent Room Identifiers with Pictograms

HEY

YOU

Note the above templates are in 1/2 scale and are 6” x 8.5“ with 3/4” visual text. To use at full size, enlarge 200%. Use this template as is or follow ABA guidelines if altering the template.

3/8” required minimum

Follow tactile element standards on previous pages

6” minimum space (not symbol)

STAIRS THEATER

The Standards do not mandate the provision of pictograms other than the symbols of accessibility, which are informational pictograms. Where other pictograms are included on a sign to designate a permanent room or space, text descriptors in raised and braille characters are required directly below the pictogram field. The pictogram is not required to be raised. The pictogram field must be at least 6 inches high. (This applies to the field, not the pictogram itself.) The pictograms and fields must have a non-glare finish and a light-on-dark or dark-on-light contrast.

Note that these requirements apply to those pictograms that label a permanent room or space, such as a restroom, cafeteria, or stairway.

Tactile Restroom Signage

Restrooms are usually permanent rooms and signs identifying them need to follow ABA standards. Follow previous pages on visual and tactile elements for permanent room signage.

With symbols 7.5” x 9” Without symbols 7.5” x 4”

Without symbols 7.5” x 3”

Note the above templates are in 3” = 1’ - 0“. To use at full size, enlarge 400%. These templates uses 3/4” visual text. Use this template as is or follow ABA guidelines if altering the template.

WOMEN

RESTROOM TOILETS

WOMENMEN

RESTROOM

MEN

PRIVY

FAMILY

RESTROOM

RESTROOM

When the sign has a lot of messages, the cleanest, least confusing solution may be to create separate signs using the same layout for each language.

Multi-lingual Signs

Carefully consider the arrangement of information on multi-lingual signs.

Treat audiences with equality. Place English on the left and other language(s) to the right whenever space allows. Try to avoid putting English on the top of all bilingual signs beause it may give visitors the impression that the English-reading audience is more important.

Translations should be reviewed by someone fluent in the language. Use caution with word-for-word translations. Clarity of meaning and natural phrasing matter more than matching English phrases word for word.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Do Not Enter No entrar

The castillo is closed.

Castillo hours:

9 am to 5 pm horario del castillo:

9:00 a 15:00

El castillo está cerrado.

Protect History

Tickets Required Beyond This Gate

No Food or Drink Except Water

No Weapons

No Smoking, Vaping, or Tobacco Use

No Pets Service Animals Welcome

Do Not Climb or Sit on Walls or Cannons

No Drones

Shoes and Shirt Required

Use Caution No Railings, Uneven Surfaces

The Castillo is Open 9 am to 5 pm

CAUTION PRECAUCIÓN

No railings, low walls, and uneven surfaces.

Do not climb, sit, or stand on walls or cannons.

Supervise children carefully.

Sin barandillas, muros bajos y terreno irregular.

No se suba, se siente o se pare en las murallas o los cañones.

Supervise a los niños muy de cerca.

Proteger la historia

Boletos requeridos más allá de esta puerta

No hay comida ni bebida excepto agua.

Sin armas

No fumar, vapear, o uso de tabaco

Sin mascotas los animales de servicio son bienvenidos

No se suba ni se siente paredes o cañones

No drones

Se requieren zapatos y camisa

Usar catión Sin barandillas, terreno irregular

El castillo está abierto de 9:00 a 17:00

Small Bilingual Identifiers Depending on space and location of mounting a more vertical or more horizontal layout may be required.

Note that panel sizes should be adjusted to suit the site where the sign will be installed. Enlarge panels that need to read from a distance. Reduce the size of panels that need to be less obtrusive and will be read from short distances but take care not to shrink any panel to the point that text is smaller than 30pt at full size.

Prison • Cárcel popcorn-covered stalagmites

Fairyland estalagmitas cubiertas de rosetas de maíz

Tierra de Las Hadas columns, stalgmites, and stalactites

Temple of the Sun columnas, estalagmitas, y estalactitas

Templo del Sol stalactite and popcorn

Lions Tail estalacitas y rosetas de maíz

Cola de León

Combining Signs

Combine and consolidate signs whenever possible. Placing signs on a single post or in a single frame can help reduce sign clutter.

When signs are combined make sure margins and separator lines match. Header/Titles should use the same font size.

Visitor Center 0.7

Jaggar Museum 1.8

Regulations

More information on why it is important to not have drones in parks. Other and more words if necessary.

No Drones

Beware of steam vents and earth cracks

CAUTION

Visitor Center 0.7

Jaggar Museum 1.8

Regulations Remain on the trails

No Drones BO U

N D

A

RY

ENTERING

NPS

Lake Clark National Park and Preserve

Visitor Center 0.7

Jaggar Museum 1.8

Stay on Trails No Drones