The Road Warden Scheme is a formal agreement between Devon County Council and local councils and community groups that enables communities to deliver approved minor works on or around the public highway. This can include organising or carrying out work both on and off the live carriageway.
We meet our statutory duties and manage our network responsibly by using an asset‑management approach to ensure public funds are used effectively. The scheme does not transfer any of our responsibilities; it provides other organisations with the opportunity to carry out additional local works that enhance and complement the service we deliver.
The Road Warden Scheme is entirely voluntary. We don’t ask communities to carry out specific tasks; instead, each community can choose the activities that they have the volunteers to support and that will make the greatest local impact.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Enables communities to complete small-scale works locally.
- DCC provides third-party (public liability) insurance for volunteer work completed in accordance with DCC guidance.
- Free training on DCC‑arranged courses.
- Priority consideration for the Highway Maintenance Community Enhancement Fund (HMCEF).
Types of Work Road Wardens Can Undertake
Road Wardens carry out preventative maintenance tasks that help slow the deterioration of the road surface and support the overall condition of the network. However, any defect that poses a risk to public safety (meaning it meets our intervention criteria) must be repaired by our maintenance teams.
Examples of work that may be approved under the scheme include:
- Pothole repairs (that do not meet DCC safety intervention levels).
- Clearing weeds.
- Cleaning road signs.
- Cleaning drainage features (e.g., gully gratings).
- Grass cutting and managing verges for wildlife.
- Repairing fingerposts.
All works must be pre‑agreed with the local Neighbourhood Highway Officer (NHO) and carried out using our method statements.
Approval depends on:
- Type of work proposed.
- Volunteer qualifications.
- Traffic flow and speed.
- Safety considerations outlined in the risk assessment.
Work on high‑speed roads is unlikely to be approved. Some tasks (e.g., sign cleaning) may be allowed on main roads if training, signing, and guarding meet Chapter 8 requirements.
Roles and Responsibilities
Road Warden
A Road Warden should:
- Be nominated by a local council or organisation.
- Communicate with Devon County Council.
- Work within the formal Road Warden Agreement.
- Coordinate all minor works in the parish or town.
- Ensure risk assessments are completed and available upon request.
- Record what works they do.
Road Warden Volunteer
Volunteers should:
- Be nominated by a local council or organisation.
- Receive the necessary training for the work they undertake.
- Work within the arrangements agreed with the Road Warden.
Road Wardens may also undertake the work themselves if they have the required training.
Insurance Provided by Devon County Council
DCC provides public liability insurance for voluntary work on the public highway, provided the work is undertaken safely and in line with DCC guidance.
We provide guidance on insurance, however parish and town councils are advised to discuss insurance requirements with their insurance provider.
Training
Training requirements vary depending on the type of work being carried out and whether the activity takes place on or near the live carriageway. Please see our guidance.
Additional Support
Organisations that may assist with providing volunteers:
- Community Payback Service
- Army Cadet Force (Western Devon)
- Police Cadets
DCC can facilitate contact if required.
Additional Resources
- Risk assessment template & examples
- Safety at Street Works and Road Works – A Code of Practice
Highway Maintenance Community Enhancement Fund (HMCEF)
The HMCEF provides financial support to towns, parishes, and community groups for volunteer-led enhancement work. Priority is given to organisations signed up to the Road Warden Scheme. Initial applications must clearly outline the work and the benefits to the community. Organisations may apply to the fund to purchase items including tools and equipment (including personal protective equipment) and pothole repair materials.
How to Get Involved
Parish and Town Councils can contact us on 0345 155 1004 or email communityselfhelp@devon.gov.uk.
Individuals should approach their local council or community group regarding the Scheme.