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Tourist Directional Signs (TODS) Program FAQs

example of TODS program sign
What is a TODS Sign?
TODS is an acronym for Tourist Oriented Directional Sign. TODS are two feet tall by six feet wide sign panels with 3M© reflective sheeting that provides business identification and directional information day and night.

TODS signs look state authorized. Are they?
Yes. The TODS program was designed by the Federal Highway Administration and established by the Montana Department of Transportation to provide motorists with directional information for tourist related businesses, services and activities.

Where are TODS signs placed?
TODS panels are placed in the right-of-way by Montana state and US highway preceding intersecting roadways along which participating businesses and activities are located. Arrows and mileage on the panels will indicate which direction the business will be found.

Who may participate?
All Montana providers of gas, food, lodging, camping and tourist attractions subject to the criteria and certain other requirements may participate.

What is the participation fee?
The participation fee is $43.00 per month, per direction.

May I participate if I'm a seasonal business or attraction?
Yes you may participate in the TODS program seasonally and subject o a recent change, you need only pay for the months you are open with a five (5) month minimum each year. A "closed" panel must overlay each of your TODS panel(s) when you are not open.

Who supplies my TODS panel(s)?
You do. You may purchase them fro us for a one-time cost of $250.00 per panel (block white letters on a blue background). Full color logs and trademarks are extra.

Are TODS panels effective?
Studies done in Washington and Oregon by the federal government indicate an extremely high business benefit to cot ration.

Montana's popularity as a must-see state continues to escalate. This year, well over a billion dollars will be spent by non-resident visitors

In West Yellowstone, 100% of the sign spaces were subscribed to during the initial phase of the TODS program development. Remember your TODS panel works 24 hours a day, every day.

How can I participate?
If you have further questions or want to participate in the TODS program, call
1.800.285.5646
Montana Motorist Information Sign Group