Tourist-oriented directional sign program

(1) A tourist-oriented directional sign program to provide directions to rural tourist-oriented businesses, services, and activities may be established at intersections on rural and conventional state, county, or municipal roads only when approved and permitted by county or local governmental entities within their respective jurisdictional areas. A county or local government that issues permits for a tourist-oriented directional sign program is responsible for sign construction, maintenance, and program operation in compliance with subsection (3) for roads on the state highway system and may establish permit fees sufficient to offset associated costs. A tourist-oriented directional sign may not be used on roads in urban areas or at interchanges on freeways or expressways. (2) This section does not create a proprietary or compensable interest in any tourist-oriented directional sign site or location for any permittee on any rural and conventional state, county, or municipal road. The department or the permitting entity may terminate permits or change locations of tourist-oriented directional sign sites as determined necessary for construction or improvement of transportation facilities or for improved traffic control or safety. (3) Tourist-oriented directional signs installed on the state highway system must comply with the requirements of the federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and rules established by the department. The department may adopt rules to establish requirements for participant qualification, construction standards, location of sign sites, and other criteria necessary to implement this program.