The Tourist-Oriented Directional Sign (TODS) program provides directional signs to eligible tourist attractions located off the state rural roadway system. The program is administered by Michigan Logos, Inc. under MDOT supervision.

The TODS program was initiated in 1996 by Michigan legislation. In addition it follows Federal Regulation in the form of the Federal Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

Is TODS different from Logo Signing?
Yes, TODS and Logo Signing (officially known as Specific Service Signing) are different. TODS signs are found on state trunklines and state roads other than limited access highways. (mainly "M" routes) while Logo signs are found on interstate highways ("I" routes) only. See this description of the differences between the programs.

What are the eligibility requirements for the TODS program? What is a "tourist-oriented activity?"
A tourist-oriented activity is any lawful cultural, historical, recreational, educational, or commercial activity that meets the eligibility requirements. Besides this requirement based on the activity type, to be eligible a major portion of the business activity's income or visitors during the normal business season must be from motorists not residing in the area and the attendance must be at least 2,000 visitors in a consecutive 12-month period. Please contact Michigan Logos, Inc. at 1-888-645-6467 for rules of eligibility.

How much does it cost to participate in the Tourist-Oriented Directional Sign program?
The cost per year is: $360 per sign; $120 per trailblazer. The cost for a logo is extra.

What about the signs themselves: What size are they? Where are they placed? How far from my business can they be placed? Who maintains them?
The signs are 6 feet wide by 2 feet high. There is a maximum of 4 signs per assembly with a 6 foot by 1 foot header plaque. They are placed on rural state non-freeways outside of incorporated cities or villages. They are not to be located at interchanges on expressways or freeways. (Signs on interstate highways are part of the logo signing program.)

Signs can be placed up to 10 miles from the activity in the lower peninsula; 15 miles in the upper peninsula. All maintenance will be performed by Michigan Logos, Inc. (MLI) or its contractors.

How can I get more information?
Please contact either:

        Mark Bott, MDOT TODS Program Manager at 517-335-2625 or

        Mike Kovalchick, MLI General Manager at 517-337-2267 or 888-645-6467