Frequently Asked Questions

Pedestrian flags are designed to help pedestrians capture motorists' attention. However, they are not a replacement for the caution and safe crossing practices that pedestrians should always use when crossing a street, regardless of whether crossing treatments are present.

Pedestrian flags are an affordable option that can be installed quickly. Public Works staff secure the flag holders to an existing sign or utility pole near the crosswalk ends. If no pole is present, one is installed. After installation, the only recurring expense is replacing the flags. Volunteers are responsible for monitoring, replacing, and redistributing the flags as needed.

New pedestrian flag locations are occasionally initiated by Public Works staff. More often, however, they are prompted by a request from a citizen willing to volunteer to maintain the flags at a specific location. Public Works staff then evaluate the site to ensure it meets the criteria for flag installation.

1. It is an existing marked crosswalk in the City of Snohomish.
2. The crosswalk is not controlled by any traffic control device, such as a traffic signal, regulatory sign (Stop/Yield), or Rapid Flashing Beacon.
3. A willing volunteer has been identified and approved to replace missing flags and redistribute them as needed.