END ROAD WORK Sign (G20-2): What It Means

END ROAD WORK (G20-2). Illustration drawn by Safe Pass Traffic; not to scale.

The orange rectangular END ROAD WORK sign (G20-2) tells you that you have reached the end of the work zone. Temporary restrictions tied to the work are behind you, and normal conditions and signs resume.

What it means

The G20-2 is a temporary traffic control guide sign, which is why it is a horizontal rectangle rather than a diamond. Section 6H.36 of the California MUTCD 2026 Edition says that, when used, it should be placed near the downstream end of the termination area, as determined by engineering judgment. The termination area is where traffic returns to its normal path.

What drivers often get wrong

Speeding up before the sign. Until you pass the end of the zone, workers, equipment or a lane shift may still be present.
Assuming every work zone has one. The manual lets agencies omit the sign in some situations, so the end of a zone is not always signed.
Confusing it with END DETOUR. END ROAD WORK marks the end of the work zone; END DETOUR (M4-8a) marks the end of a detour route. See detour signs.
Assuming a work zone speed limit ends here. A separate END WORK ZONE SPEED LIMIT (R2-12) sign exists for that; see double fines and work zone speed signs.

Where it goes in a work zone

Place it near the downstream end of the termination area. Section 6H.36 lists some practical options and exceptions:

It may be installed on the back of a warning sign that faces traffic in the opposite direction, or on the back of a Type 3 barricade.
It may be omitted if the end of the work zone is obvious to motorists or falls within a larger project’s limits.
It can be omitted if other work zones begin within about 1 mile of the end of the work space in rural areas, or about 0.25 miles in urban areas.
For normal daytime maintenance operations, the G20-2 is optional.

What contractors need to know

Show the G20-2 on the plan at the end of the termination area, or note why it is omitted; the permitting agency may still require it.
Using the back of an opposite-direction warning sign can reduce sign stands on two-way roads.
On long zones the G20-2 pairs naturally with ROAD WORK NEXT XX MILES (G20-1) at the start.
When the sign stays up but the work is done, remove or cover it with the rest of the temporary signs so it does not mislead drivers.

Related signs

Frequently asked questions

Is the END ROAD WORK sign required?

The manual gives placement guidance for when it is used, and lets it be omitted in some cases, such as when the end is obvious or the zone is inside a larger project. Agencies may still require it through the permit.

Can END ROAD WORK go on the back of another sign?

Yes. Section 6H.36 allows it on the back of a warning sign facing the opposite direction, or on the back of a Type 3 barricade.

Why is END ROAD WORK a rectangle instead of a diamond?

It gives information rather than warning of a hazard, so it is a guide-style rectangle in work zone orange.

Sources

Need this sign on a traffic control plan?

Safe Pass Traffic prepares PE & TE stamped traffic control plans, striping plans and typical plans for projects statewide in California, and helps with the permit submittal. We draw the plan that shows which signs go where; your contractor or traffic control provider sets them in the field. Call or text (714) 362-1348 or request a quote.