The definitions set forth in this section apply throughout this chapter.

     (1) "Erect" means to construct, build, raise, assemble, place, affix, attach, create, paint, draw, or in any other way bring into being or establish.

     (2) "Interstate system" means a state highway that is or becomes part of the national system of interstate and defense highways as described in section 103(d) of Title 23, United States Code.

     (3) "Maintain" means to allow to exist.

     (4) "Primary system" means a state highway that is or becomes part of the federal-aid primary system as described in section 103(b) of Title 23, United States Code.

     (5) "Scenic system" means (a) a state highway within a public park, federal forest area, public beach, public recreation area, or national monument, (b) a state highway or portion of a highway outside the boundaries of an incorporated city or town designated by the legislature as a part of the scenic system, or (c) a state highway or portion of a highway outside the boundaries of an incorporated city or town designated by the legislature as a part of the scenic and recreational highway system except for the sections of highways specifically excluded in RCW 47.42.025.

     (6) "Motorist information sign panel" means a panel, rectangular in shape, located in the same manner as other official traffic signs readable from the main traveled ways, and consisting of:

     (a) The words "GAS," "FOOD," "LODGING," "CAMPING," "RECREATION," or "TOURIST ACTIVITIES" and directional information; and

     (b) One or more individual business signs mounted on the panel.

     (7) "Business sign" means a separately attached sign mounted on the motorist information sign panel or roadside area information panel to show the brand or trademark and name, or both, of the motorist service available on the crossroad at or near the interchange. Nationally, regionally, or locally known commercial symbols or trademarks for service stations, restaurants, and motels shall be used when applicable. The brand or trademark identification symbol used on the business sign shall be reproduced with the colors and general shape consistent with customary use. Messages, trademarks, or brand symbols that interfere with, imitate, or resemble an official warning or regulatory traffic sign, signal, or device are prohibited.

     (8) "Roadside area information panel or display" means a panel or display located so as not to be readable from the main traveled way, erected in a safety rest area, scenic overlook, or similar roadside area, for providing motorists with information in the specific interest of the traveling public.

     (9) "Tourist-oriented directional sign" means a sign on a motorist information sign panel on the state highway system to provide directional information to a qualified tourist-oriented business, service, or activity.

     (10) "Qualified tourist-oriented business" means a lawful cultural, historical, recreational, educational, or entertaining activity or a unique or unusual commercial or nonprofit activity, the major portion of whose income or visitors are derived during its normal business season from motorists not residing in the immediate area of the activity.

     (11) "Adopt-a-highway sign" means a sign on a state highway right-of-way referring to the departments' adopt-a-highway litter control program.

[1999 c 201 § 1; 1991 c 94 § 3.]