Apply for a traffic regulation order to restrict the use of public space
Service description
For any measure that involves the use or restriction of public road space, you must obtain a traffic regulation order from the local road traffic authority.
Such measures include:- Roadworks
- erecting scaffolding or storing building materials
- Removals
- events
You must not begin implementing the measures until you have been issued with the order.
They are responsible for informing the public about the measure.
In the traffic regulation order, the competent authority stipulates that,
- how you must cordon off and mark the work area,
- whether and how you need to restrict, divert and regulate traffic, and
- how you should signpost any diversion routes.
On the one hand, these requirements ensure the safety of workers and road users. On the other hand, they ensure that traffic is not disrupted any more than is necessary.
You do not only need a traffic regulation order when a carriageway is completely or partially closed. It is also required if the works only affect cycle paths or footpaths.
If the proposed traffic restriction relates to a roadworks site, a site manager must be appointed.
If the measure takes longer than the period for which you applied, you must apply for an extension of the measure before the approved period expires.
In the event of an accident (emergency), please contact the relevant police station directly.
Procedure
You can apply for the traffic regulation order restricting the use of the road by post.
- Please visit the website of the relevant authority to find out more. If available, download the relevant form.
- If a form is available: Please complete the form and sign it. Then submit the application, together with the required documents, by post or email.
- If no form is available: You should write an informal application, sign it and submit it, together with the necessary documents, by post or email.
- The competent authorities will examine the application and, where necessary, consult other bodies.
- Once your application has been assessed, you will receive a notice of approval or rejection. The notice of approval will set out the traffic regulations applicable to you.
- You may now carry out the measure in accordance with the traffic regulation order.
- You will receive a notice of charges.
- You pay the fee.
Who should I contact?
local / lower-level road traffic authority
Prerequisites
You must meet the following requirements:
- You can demonstrate a legitimate interest.
- They do not compromise road safety and do not cause any disproportionate disruption to traffic.
- They do not disproportionately restrict public use.
- In the event of traffic restrictions due to roadworks: As the person responsible for issuing traffic control orders, you hold the certificate ‘Guidance Note on the Framework Conditions for the Specialist Knowledge Required for Traffic Safety at Roadworks’ (MVAS).
Which documents are required?
You will need the following documents:
- Application for the issue of a traffic regulation order restricting the use of public space
- site plan to scale
- where applicable: Certificate ‘Guidance Note on the Framework Conditions for the Specialist Knowledge Required to Ensure Safety at Road Worksites’ (MVAS)
- optional: Road sign plan
- optional: diversion plan
- Optional: Explanation of the building project/process
- optional: Signal positions/signal diagram
What deadlines do I have to observe?
Minimum application deadline
Application deadline: 14 days
Processing time
The processing time for extensive measures is longer than that for brief, less extensive measures.
Deadline: 2 weeks
Legal basis
Legal remedy
- Contradiction
- Further information on how to lodge an appeal can be found in the decision regarding your application.
- Action before the administrative court
- Contradiction
What else should I know?
There are no indications or special features.