Bylaws Bylaws
This page outlines AT’s bylaws, which ensure the safe use of the transport system.
- What are bylaws?
- Why do we need bylaws?
- What do the AT bylaws cover?
- How do I get approval?
- Links to our bylaws
- Traffic-related bylaw review
What are bylaws?
Bylaws are rules made by local councils/authorities, under national legislation, which provide location-specific rules for different topics. Bylaws, once approved, enable AT to take action against people who contravene the rules of the bylaw.
Auckland Council and Auckland Transport are the two main bylaw-making authorities in Auckland. Auckland Transport can make bylaws to help manage issues related to transport and public safety on Auckland’s transport network. It is important to note that the state highway network, including motorways, is managed by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.
Bylaws are generally reviewed every five to ten years. The process to make or review a bylaw involves public consultation to help make our bylaws as useful as possible and reflect the needs of Aucklanders.
AT has four bylaws that are made under the Land Transport Act 1998 and/or the Local Government Act 2002 which apply to the Auckland transport system.
Why do we need them?
The purpose of our bylaws is to enable AT to take action against individuals whose behaviour leads to safety or operational risk and also to act as a deterrent against any such behaviour occurring. They form part of AT’s role in contributing to an effective, efficient and safe transport system in the public interest.
What do the AT bylaws cover?
Each bylaw has different topics and content. The following table outlines some key topics and what bylaw you will find it in.
| Topic | Which bylaw covers it |
|
Parking |
Traffic Bylaw |
|
Safe driving |
Traffic Bylaw |
|
Special vehicle lanes |
Traffic Bylaw |
|
Road restrictions |
Traffic Bylaw |
|
Signage |
Signs Bylaw |
|
Election signs |
Signs Bylaw |
|
Construction work |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Encroachments |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Damage to the street |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Vehicle crossings |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Filming |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Street trading (including micro-mobility) |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Livestock movement |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Temporary traffic management |
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw |
|
Speed limits |
Speed Limits Bylaw |
How do I get approval?
Each bylaw page contains information on how to get approval for activities that comply with the applicable bylaws.
The four bylaws are below. Legacy bylaws are those bylaws that existed prior to the current bylaws AT operates under. These are revoked upon the approval of the bylaws by the AT Board. The new bylaws all contain guidance on the transition arrangements for approvals under the legacy bylaws.
Traffic bylaw 2012
This bylaw allows AT to set requirements for parking and control of traffic on roads under AT’s control.
Signs Bylaw 2022
This joint AT / Auckland Council bylaw oversees the placement of signage in (and beyond) the road corridor.
Activities in the Road Corridor Bylaw 2022
This bylaw provides the framework for approval of a range of activities that are not related to traditional traffic management.
Speed limits Bylaw 2022
This bylaw allows AT to set the maximum speeds of vehicles on roads where AT is the RCA. The bylaw is part of Auckland Transport's Safe Speeds programme.
Traffic-related bylaw review
AT and Auckland Council are working on a new, joint, traffic-related bylaw. Public consultation is open until 4 December 2024.
To have your say, visit the traffic-related bylaw webpage (opens in a new tab).