White Lines

Road markings are as important as signs. Longitudinal markings inform and warn road users of approaching situations that will require them to take some form of action (i.e. solid white lines - do not cross, or lane line - turn right).

Transverse lines also give instruction (i.e. stop or give way).

The Highway Code gives examples of the lines in normal use and their associated rules.

Yellow Lines

Yellow lines are used to mark some form of waiting restriction. There are only two types used -

• Double lines usually to mark lengths of road where there is no waiting at any time. However there are exceptions to this and supplementary plates fixed to lighting columns or posts will tell you what the actual restriction is.
• Single lines usually indicate a shorter period of restriction such as daytime. Again supplementary plates will show the actual times.

Loading restrictions are shown by yellow markings on the kerb and on the supplementary plates.

The Highway Code gives examples of the lines in normal use.

All lines on the highway must be authorised by the Authority. Special lines are with prior approval of the Department for Transport, or if they are experimental and under trial.