Working on a Public Road -

Road Management Approvals (s138)

If you're planning to do any work within a road reserve (like digging, installing services, or setting up traffic control), you must get approval from the relevant Road Authority before starting. This is a requirement under Section 138 of the NSW Roads Act.

This applies to individuals, companies, and organisations. Some utility providers may have special agreements or exemptions with Council for minor works, but these usually don’t cover things like traffic control or road closures. Contractors working on behalf of private individuals or businesses are not exempt.

Council will only issue a Road Management Permit if the person or contractor is appropriately qualified and experienced for the work proposed.