Is Moving Traffic Cones Illegal in the UK? What You Need to Know

Traffic cones are a familiar sight on UK roads — guiding vehicles, protecting pedestrians, and keeping road workers safe. But despite how common they are, many people still ask the same question:

Is moving traffic cones illegal in the UK?

The short answer is: it can be. Here’s what the law says and why it matters.

Traffic Cones Are a Legal Traffic Control Measure

Traffic cones are classed as temporary traffic management equipment and are covered by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD). On public roads, they may only be placed by authorised organisations such as:

• Local authorities

• Police and emergency services

• Licensed traffic management contractors

When cones are in place, they are there for a reason — whether that’s roadworks, an incident, pedestrian safety, or traffic flow.

Is It Illegal to Move Traffic Cones?

If cones have been lawfully placed on the public highway, moving them can amount to interfering with traffic management and may be treated as an offence.

The Highway Code makes it clear that road users should not enter areas marked off by cones, and deliberately moving them can:

• Create serious safety risks

• Obstruct the highway

• Put road workers and the public in danger

In some cases, moving cones has resulted in police action for obstruction or unsafe behaviour.

Even if it seems harmless or inconvenient, cones should never be moved without authority.

What About Putting Your Own Cones on the Road?

Placing cones on a public road without permission is also illegal.

Under Section 137 of the Highways Act 1980, it is an offence to wilfully obstruct the highway. This includes:

• Reserving parking spaces with cones

• Blocking traffic or footways

• Marking out areas on the road without approval

Councils and police have the power to remove unauthorised cones and may issue fines where appropriate.

Private Land vs Public Highway

The rules change on private land.

You are free to use cones on:

• Private driveways

• Car parks

• Event spaces

As long as they do not encroach onto the public highway, this is perfectly legal.

Why This Matters

Moving or placing cones incorrectly isn’t just a legal issue — it’s a safety one. Traffic management is carefully planned to protect everyone using the road. Even small changes can have serious consequences.

Need Traffic Cones for an Event or Temporary Works?

If you’re planning an event, managing vehicle movements, or need cones for short-term traffic control, it’s important to do it legally and safely.

At Beaumont Traffic Management, we can provide the right equipment and expert advice to ensure everything is set up correctly and in line with regulations.

👉 If you need traffic cones or temporary traffic management support, get in touch with our team — we’re happy to help.— they have the power to remove unauthorised cones and enforce the law.

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