Ask Mr. Answer Person: "What are the guidelines for crosswalk stop signs?"

Daina e-mails Mr. Answer Person: "When portable stop signs are put out for school crossings, where are drivers supposed to stop. At the intersection? (My thought is yes)  RIGHT AT the sign? (blocks the crossing). I think it would be very important for people to know which is the right place to stop. And why aren't these stop signs just made permanent?

There's a good reason you're confused.  It's because there are different rules for different intersections!

Decorah Police Chief Tom Courtney says at a four-way intersection with the stop sign in the middle of the intersection, drivers should come to a full stop at the marked stop line.  That's so pedestrians can use the crosswalks.

In the case of three-way intersections or a stop sign placed in the middle of a street, motorists should stop at the stop sign.  Remember, however, that pedestrians have the right-of-way and must be allowed to clear the intersection before motorists can proceed.

As for your final question, the location and use of all stop signs are based on the recommendations of city or county engineers and their governing groups.  Most school intersection stop signs are removed when school is not in session.  But if you think a stop sign should be made permanent--or permanently removed, for that matter--you should contact the appropriate city or county official.