As you might expect, there are plenty of rules, regulations and guidelines in place when it comes to installing DIY or temporary traffic-calming measures in the UK.
Laws governing private property or owned rights of way are different than those for public highways and commons. Speed restriction systems in the latter areas are overseen at varying UK Government (Department for Transport) and local council levels.
Most uses on public roads are legislated by the England and Wales Highways (Road Humps) Regulations 1999, subject to dozens of clauses and sub-clauses. This means that you cannot install temporary speed ramps on a public road.
Temporary Use on Private Property
It is advisable to check with your local council before carrying out any traffic calming measures on private land. You should also ensure that any products you do install are temporary and entirely removable if necessary.
Below, you will find a list of additional important notes and considerations to bear in mind. These should all apply in every case, even when you are considering installing temporary humps on a completely private road or fully owned area.
Specifications and Requirements -
Products of this type may only be installed on roads with an official speed limit of 30pmh or less
If the speed limit is above 20mph, there must be street lighting. Even where this is not the case, it is always recommended to position humps as close to a source of illumination as possible
On streets with speed limits above 20mph, you will need to provide adequate signage, following the relevant highway authority regulations
Severe bumps designed to reduce traffic speed to less than 10mph can only ever be used on private roads
Minimum and maximum dimensions are crucial to observe accurately. In most cases, they must be a minimum of 900mm wide and 25mm high, but no more than 100mm at their tallest point. You cannot have a vertical face (a step) of more than 6mm in height anywhere on the main body of the ramp or bump
They can’t typically be installed:
Within 30 metres of a designated pedestrian crossing
Within 20 metres of any part of a railway level crossing
Within 2 metres of a pedestrian support rail or guidance rail
Within 25 metres of a bridge or over-road crossing
General Obligations and Consultations -
You will likely need to consult with police and emergency services in the local area, to confirm that no through routes or access ways are affected
You will likely also need to consult with other user groups, such as refuse collection and public transport services, traders, and nearby residents groups
If your private road is shared by other people, you will need to consult with all of them and gain unanimous approval in writing before starting any work
Cautions -
Incorrectly placed speed bumps can make traffic more dangerous
Be aware of all possible outcomes from slowing traffic in a given area, including the likelihood of increased air pollution, noise, higher vehicle upkeep costs, and the potential impact of traffic being diverted elsewhere
Note that you may be entirely liable for any damages, injuries or other claims linked to temporary traffic calming measures on your private property