Pedestrian Zone Signs

What are pedestrian zone signs?

Pedestrian zone signs are rectangular signs with a black border and white background. The signs provide information on non-primary routes. In addition, the signs restrict the use of vehicles in specific locations, with the restrictions varying based on the type of vehicle, individual, time of day and reason for being in the area. For example, some pedestrian zone signs ban all vehicles, while others allow pedal bikes, buses, taxis and disabled badge holders.

Types of pedestrian zone signs

If you’ve ever received a fine for entering or parking in a pedestrian zone, you’ll know how confusing the sign boards can be. With repeater boards, yellow panels and unclear instructions, it’s easy to see why these signs catch so many drivers out.

Pedestrian zone no vehicles allowed sign

This sign bans all motor vehicles, pedal bikes and eclectic scooters in the designated areas. If the zone only operates part-time, the sign will have a middle repeater panel showing when the zone is in operation. If exemptions or additional restrictions exist, these will be listed in a third panel at the bottom of the sign.

This sign prohibits all motor vehicles except those loading and unloading goods. The zone operates part-time from midnight to 11 am, and from 4 pm to midnight on Monday to Saturday. The yellow panel at the bottom of the sign means no waiting when the zone is in operation.

This pedestrian zone sign means no motor vehicles or motorbikes are allowed, except when loading and unloading goods. Pedal bikes are permitted in the area. The zone operates daily from 7 – 11 am to 4 – 8 pm.

This sign indicates a full-time pedestrian zone, where motor vehicles and motorbikes are banned, except when loading and unloading. Waiting is not allowed at any time.

This sign is used in pedestrian zones with heavily restricted access. No vehicles of any kind are allowed, except when loading or unloading. The zone is always in use, and any waiting restrictions will be highlighted with yellow road markings.

This sign prohibits motor vehicles and motorbikes, but ridden pedal bikes are allowed.

Variable message signs

To add to the confusion, some pedestrian zone signs have variable panels that local councils swap out when restrictions change. If the council decides to change the constraints around a particular zone, you could get caught out if you aren’t paying attention. Always read the exemptions and times of operation for any pedestrian zone.

This sign bans all motor vehicles, including pedal bikes. The zone is in operation at all times, and entry is only permitted to vehicles accessing a property. Waiting is not allowed.

This sign is similar to the sign above. However, the exemptions panel is different. Now LGV are permitted to enter the zone when loading and unloading.

Pedestrian zone ends sign

When the restrictions end, you’ll see a pedestrian zone ends sign. This road sign has a black border and white background. The prohibitory sign in the upper panel will be a greyed-out version of what was on the entrance sign.

Why do we have pedestrian zones?

Designed to reduce pollution, restrict vehicle access and encourage pedestrian activity, pedestrian zones are credited with making greener and more inclusive urban areas. You can find these zones on high streets, shopping districts and in outdoor communal spaces.

Criticisms of pedestrian zones

The main criticism of this type of zone is that it leads to increased traffic in nearby areas not covered by the restrictions. Along with low-traffic-neighbourhoods, pedestrian zones have been accused of creating pollution hotspots, additional congestion and longer journey times due to traffic build-up in the surrounding area.