Purple paint placement guidelines require the bottom of the mark to be not less than how many feet from the ground and not more than how many feet from the ground?

• A. 2 and 4
• B. 3 and 5
• C. 4 and 6
• D. 1 and 2

Answer: (B)

The height at which purple paint marks are placed is chosen to maximize visibility and durability in the field. If the mark sits too low, it can be easily covered by grass, mulch, snow, or mowing equipment, making it hard to see and easy to miss during digging or inspections. If it sits too high, it can be harder to spot from typical working distances, and it might be mistaken for a sign or other roadside marker, or become more prone to damage from equipment or weather.

Placing the bottom of the mark between 3 and 5 feet off the ground strikes a practical balance: it’s high enough to stay visible above ground vegetation and routine maintenance, yet low enough to be easily detected by workers, equipment operators, and inspectors without confusion. This is why the guideline specifies a 3 to 5 foot range.