Abstract: A retractable post that can be raised and lowered and stored in retracted subsurface position such that the post will be out of the way. The post can be extended to an upright position and locked in that position by a specific lift, twist and set locking mechanism. The post is lowered by a specific lift, twist and lower sequence in a somewhat reverse order. The post is typically used with a sign such as no parking, handicap parking, area closed or other such uses. The retractable post is designed so the post can be lowered for area maintenance such as snow removal or for general closing and opening access to restricted area. In a simple configuration of the retractable post, the retractable post contains a housing, a sleeve stabilizer attached to a top of the housing, a post having an elongated flat surface, a locking notch, a turning groove and a stabilizing end, and a D-block. The D-block has a D shaped opening that interacts with the turning groove on the post to allow the post to rotate.