Road users depend on traffic signs and road markings for information and guidance on how to use the road network. They are an important asset as they facilitate movement along the road network as well as enforcement of road traffic regulations, aid road safety and can impact on the local environment.
We, as the Highway Authority, are responsible for all road markings and traffic signs on the public highway within the boundary extents of Hull. Those situated on the A63 are the responsibility of National Highways.
It is illegal for members of the public to place unauthorised signs or road markings on the public highway. These will be removed and could lead to enforcement action. Where any signs or lines are placed on a boundary fence or within private land, these are solely the responsibility of the landowner and therefore no further action will be taken unless this poses a road safety risk or confusion to traffic.
The meaning of signs and lines
All road markings and traffic signs on the public highway are installed in accordance with, and must conform to, the current version of the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD) unless special authorisation is approved by the Department for Transport (DfT).
It is important that all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, are aware of the meaning of traffic signs and road markings. More information can be found on the GOV.UK website for -
Signs and lines that restrict traffic movements, parking and loading (such as double yellow lines) are governed by a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). This is a legal order that stipulates the lengths and types of restrictions that are enforceable.
We cannot install restrictions based on requests, as this must go through a legal consultation process. You can access all recent Traffic Regulation Order consultations on our consultation website. Requests for new restrictions must be discussed with your local area team.
Enforceable signs and lines
Road markings and traffic signs associated with –
- parking
- loading
- waiting restrictions
such as yellow lines or those associated with moving traffic restrictions, for example, bus lanes, are enforceable and may result in a fine if ignored.
Others, such as advisory bays or access protection markings, are not legally enforced but support the safe use and access of the road network.
Maintenance
We monitor the condition of all signs and lines through routine safety inspections and surveys. If our inspectors identify a problem with a road marking or traffic sign, there are criteria which first need to be met before a task can be raised to refresh them. There are tolerance levels which need to be considered, and a worn marking does not necessarily mean it requires repainting as a matter of urgency or at all.
We work on a risk-based approach and prioritise signs and markings that pose the largest risk to public safety, such as Stop and Give Way signs and lines.
Road marking maintenance
Lining works are carried out by dedicated lining contractors who cover the whole city. If you have received confirmation that works have been raised following a report you have made, but the markings have not yet been reinstated, it's likely the issue has been assessed as low-risk. In such cases, it will be addressed as part of our scheduled cyclical lining programme.
Please note that lining work is weather-dependent. Adverse conditions and limited resources can affect how quickly we are able to complete these works.
We will repaint road markings when they become worn or faded, but these will be considered on safety risk and available funding.
There have been instances where residents have installed their own signs and road markings on the public highway. These are illegal and will be removed accordingly.