(1) Specific information signs may be erected only for qualified businesses located within three miles of an interchange as measured from the gore of the exit ramp along public highways to the nearest point of intersection of the driveway of the qualified business and public highway, except as provided below.

(2) If no qualified business within a service category under ARM 18.7.303(1) exists within 3 miles of the interchange, then successive 3-mile increments up to 15 miles may be considered. If considered, then all qualified businesses within the service category and within the successive increment may be included, but not to exceed the maximum capacity of the specific service sign.

(3) A qualified business located more than three miles from an interchange may not qualify for signing if a motorist could obtain similar services adjacent to the next interchange by traveling fewer miles.