Traffic and transport
Road signs and line marking
Regulatory signs and line marking are approved and installed by Main Roads WA. The request must, however, be initiated by the City.
Main Roads WA requires certain criteria to be met for the installation of stop or give way signs. Requests must be initiated by the City.
Main Roads WA are responsible for replacing these signs. Please place a request to Main Roads WA.
Speed signs are approved and installed by Main Roads WA. They do not support speed signs on roads that meet the definition of a ‘Built-up Area’. Should the speed limit change on a continuing road, a speed limit sign will be in place to reflect the change of the speed limit.
The approval and installation of school speed signs is the responsibility of Main Roads WA. Requests for school speed signs are to be made to Main Roads WA by the School’s Principal or Parents and Citizens’ Association. Contact Main Roads WA.
Kangaroo signage is approved and installed by Main Roads WA and must meet the following criteria:
- The road has a speed limit greater than 60km/h.
- The wildlife poses a significant risk of injury to motorists.
- The signage won’t distract road users from other signage, such as speed or school zone signs.
Permanent warning signs for small wildlife such as ducks is not supported due to the seasonal nature of their movements and does not pose an injury risk to motorists.
Main Roads WA approve and install children warning signs on the road network and are generally supported in situations where children are unexpected and there is a play area nearby. These signs are not supported to warn drivers that children are playing on the road, even if it is a cul-de-sac.
The best option would be to encourage your neighbours to place a ‘Please Slow Down Consider Our Kids’ bin sticker on bins as a reminder.
Educational bin stickers are available for collection from the City of Joondalup Administration building reception during opening hours.
- Administration Building, 90 Boas Avenue, Joondalup. From Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5pm (except on public holidays).
Main Roads WA will support centre line marking on roads that carry 2,500 or more vehicles per day. Contact the City requesting a review of the road.
If the line marking is regulatory, such as stop, give way, broken or solid white lines, please place a request to Main Roads WA.
Traffic count program
Traffic counters provide the City with data on vehicle speed and volume and are installed as part of either the City’s ongoing traffic monitoring program, assessing developments or road changes or in response to resident concerns of speed and/or volumes along a road.
We use traffic surveys with pneumatic tubes – those black rubber tubes you see stretched across the road. They record data on vehicle speed and type, which is then analysed to understand traffic patterns.
The traffic surveys are in place for approximately seven days to ensure ‘normal’ vehicle movements are captured, such as the AM and PM weekday peak periods.
To ensure ‘normal’ traffic conditions are captured, surveys will occur during school terms.
On some occasions seasonal factors need to be considered, such as near the coast during summer, even if this falls outside school terms. University breaks may also be a consideration depending on the location.
A request for the street to be placed on the traffic count program, can be made to the City.
A road will only be surveyed, if traffic data is five or more years old.
If a road is to be programmed for traffic surveys, it may take quite some time as it depends on contractor availability, school holidays, and/or seasonal factors.
The City is responsible for over 1,000kms of road network and at times the traffic count program will be fully committed before new traffic surveys can be programmed.
Traffic treatments and investigations
There are many things to consider when modifying a road or intersection to address road safety concerns. A road and/or an intersection will require to be assessed to determine if any changes are needed.
The investigation may take quite some time depending on whether traffic surveys are required. Obtaining recent traffic surveys can lengthen the process as it depends on contractor availability, school terms, seasonal factors, and/or a fully committed Traffic count program.
Speed bumps are not always the most appropriate treatment for a road and can create additional issues such as an increase in vehicle acceleration noise, affect the amenity of residents living near the speed bump. It is also a treatment not favoured by emergency services or buses. A traffic investigation is required to determine if a road requires an infrastructure-based traffic treatment.
A technical analysis of a road occurs by using the Traffic Investigation and Intervention Guidelines (the guidelines). This assists with the level of intervention that is required for a road or an intersection by using scoring criteria. The criteria are used to calculate a warrant score. This only relates to roads that are managed by the City.
The scoring criteria are:
- functionality of the road, such as local distributor or local access road
- vehicle volumes
- vehicle speeds, specifically the 85th percentile
- most recent five-year crash history
- land use activity generators (education and/or retail)
- road user types
- road environment – curves or crests.
The total points acquired based on the scoring criteria, is called a warrant score. If the warrant score is high enough, it means the road may qualify for a traffic treatment.
The warrant score assists with ranking road projects and the level of intervention that is required. The scoring is broken into three categories:
- 30 or less – Has low safety and amenity concerns and no further action is required at the time.
- 31-50 – Has a minor technical issue and low-cost non-capital solutions such as signage or line marking.
- 51 or more- The road has a technical problem that requires an infrastructure-based solution.
The road will be listed for consideration and prioritised against other high scoring road projects as part of the budgetary development of the City’s Five-Year Capital Works Program. The location will also be assessed to determine if it qualifies for Main Roads WA’s Black Spot grant funding program.
The Black Spot program is a grant funded program aimed at improving road safety by targeting locations with a history of crashes or a high risk of future accidents. Projects are selected based on crash data and cost-effectiveness.
The type of traffic treatment will be the most appropriate treatment to address the issues that have been identified as part of the technical investigation.
Initiate a technical assessment of a road or intersection by contacting info@joondalup.wa.gov.au
Traffic signals
Traffic signals are managed by Main Roads WA. For any signals, including the 40km/h school signs, that are not working or are damaged, please report to Main Roads WA.
The first step is to contact the City regarding the location. The location will be assessed to confirm whether the suggested change is possible. Please, contact the City via info@joondalup.wa.gov.au
The City’s Transport Engineering Team will liaise with Main Roads WA to discuss what is required and whether it would be supported. Depending on the complexity of the change that is required, will determine how long it will take before the change is implemented. Modifying traffic signals in general, is a complex process and requires approval from Main Roads WA.
These requests are to be made to Main Roads WA.
An assessment will need occur by the City’s Transport Engineering Team. Main Roads WA approves and installs traffic signals, and they require a fully detailed technical justification for why traffic signals are required at a location. Contact the City to place an enquiry.
The traffic signal phasing is set by Main Roads WA. Pedestrian phases are part of the overall timing for vehicles as well and it can be very difficult to change the pedestrian signal timing.
The green walking figure means you can start to cross the road.
The flashing red figure means time is running out and if you have started crossing to keep going. If you haven’t started, wait for the next green signal.
The solid red figure means do not cross and wait for the next green signal.
It can be possible to add a pedestrian phase, but it also depends on the type of signalised intersection, the existing infrastructure to support pedestrian crossings, and whether it would be supported by Main Roads WA. To enquire about the feasibility of a pedestrian phasing at a signalised intersection, contact the City.
Speeding
Speeding and hooning is enforced by the WA Police. Contact the Police on 131 444, or make an online report to the WA Police.
The City cannot enforce speeding on the road network. As part of an investigation into a road, the extent of speeding can be obtained as part of the Traffic Count Program. Place a request to determine if the road can be placed on the Traffic Count Program.
Once the traffic surveys have been analysed and recorded, roads that have an 85th percentile speed of 10km/h or more are passed onto the WA Police for speed enforcement. The timing of attendance is a police matter.
This is a transport engineering measurement of speed and is the speed at which 85% of vehicles are travelling at or less under free-flowing conditions.
There are many factors that must be considered when modifying a road. More information can be found on the Traffic treatments and investigations (FAQ) page.
The speed limit in built-up areas is 50km/h and speed signage is not supported by Main Roads WA. More information can be found on the Traffic and Transport (FAQ) page.
Speed limits are approved by Main Roads WA, however requests for speed limit changes must be initiated by the City. The same applies for new speed limits. Request a review to change the speed limit or add a new speed limit by contacting the City.
Active transport
The common modes of active transport are:
- walking
- cycling
- scootering (non-electric)
- skateboarding
- running or jogging
- public transport.
Electric-assisted personal mobility devices, such as e-scooters or e-skateboards, are not considered to be ‘active transport’ due to the minimal physical effort required to operate them. However, the City acknowledges that these devices offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to car travel.
Active transport is supported through several channels.
- There is an extensive path network with a mix of footpaths and shared paths. New paths and the upgrade of existing paths are consistently listed in the City’s Five-Year Capital Works Program.
- Installing infrastructure such as bike racks and bike tool racks.
- The City’s Bike Plan 2025-2035 is a strategic document guides active transport planning and informs key priorities to support the City in achieving its vision to become a “bike friendly city”.
- Your Move is a travel behaviour change program developed by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure and supported by the City. The program encourages schools, workplaces and organisations to adopt more active and sustainable travel options. This would include walking, cycling, scooting and using public transport as part of their daily commute and workplace culture to reduce traffic congestion and parking demands.
Further details on different types of paths can be found on the Kerbs and footpaths page.
All path users have a shared responsibility to ensure everyone is safe and comfortable. While there is no fixed speed limit for bicycles on shared paths, cyclists are expected to:
- Ride to the conditions – slowdown in busy areas or when visibility is low.
- Give way to pedestrians – they always have priority.
- Pass safely – leave plenty of space and use a bell or call out politely.
- Avoid speeding – high speeds can startle or endanger others, especially children, older adults or people with mobility aids.
Pedestrians can be mindful of:
- If wearing headphones, ensure you can hear bells or calls from cyclists.
- If walking a dog, ensure that the leash isn’t too long and impacts the opposite side of the path.
- Keep to the left and avoid walking three or more abreast so users coming the other way aren’t impacted.
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Local governments do not have the authority to enforce speed limits on shared paths. This is because shared paths are not classified as roads under the Road Traffic Code, so enforcement options are limited.
The City encourages all path users to be courteous and will use signage and/or path decals to encourage good path etiquette.
There is currently a research project managed by the Planning and Transport Research Centre (PATREC) at UWA called SafePaths.
They are calling on path users across WA to share their experiences and the City of Joondalup is encouraging the community to get involved. You can report near misses, crashes or safety concerns through the online portal and help researchers identify high-risk locations, problem behaviours, and gaps in current path design.
Visit safepaths.au to report an incident or safety concern and for further information pertaining to the research project.
The major rules that apply to eBikes include:
- Riders must be over 16 years or older.
- The maximum power output for the motor is up to 250 watts.
- The bike requires human power to make it move.
- The road rules applying to regular bicycles also apply to eBikes.
Further details of rules and regulations related to bikes, including eBikes, can be found on the Road Safety Commission page.
If you witness use of non-compliant or illegally modified eBikes or eMotorbikes, please report to WA Police on 131 444.
The major rules the apply to eRideables, such as eScooters, include:
- Riders must be 16 years or older.
- Does not exceed speeds of 25km/hr.
- Weights less than 25kg and is fitted with lights, reflectors and a bell.
Further details of rules, device specifications, penalties and safety can be found on the Road Safety Commission page.
If you witness use of non-compliant or illegally modified eBikes, eRideables or eMotorbikes, please report to WA Police on 131 444.
School travel and road safety
The City will consider installing additional parking bays, based on available room and whether the Department of Education or the school is willing to co-contribute at least 50% of the project costs.
Vacant land next to a school is usually part of the school property and owned by the Department of Education or the private school. The decision to utilise that space for parking is a decision for the Department of Education or the private school.
Your Move is a travel behaviour change program developed by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure and supported by the City. The program’s purpose is to encourage walking, cycling, scooting, and taking public transport to school to reduce traffic volumes and congestion that occurs during morning and afternoon school peak periods.
Kiss and drive
Kiss and drive bays reduces the demand for parking bays, assist with traffic flow around the school and creates a safer area for children to be dropped off.
If you are a parent, the first step is to contact the school and discuss whether it is something that is wanted or needed. If it is needed, City officers will carry out an assessment to confirm whether there is existing infrastructure to support a kiss and drive. The operation of kiss and drive is the sole responsibility of the school. Requests for kiss and drive must come from Principal or Parents and Citizens' Association in writing via info@joondalup.wa.gov.au. Contact the City to request an assessment.
The operation of kiss and drives is the school’s responsibility. Unless otherwise stated, kiss and drive facilities are not enforced by the City. Watch the animation video of how a kiss and drive should operate. Speak to your school about having Kiss and Drive reminders in the newsletter.
The City will organise for the line marking to be refreshed. Submit a maintenance request.
Previously the Western Australian Local Government Association’s Roadwise provided the signs for schools to purchase. This service is no longer available and currently the City is unable to provide replacement or new signs. The City is currently investigating options to address this issue.
School speed zones and children’s crossing
Main Roads WA approve requests for new or amended school speed zones. Requests must come from the school’s principal or Parents and Citizens' Association and be submitted to the City.
A children’s crossing is a designated area on the road where school students, parents and the wider community can safely cross under supervision of a traffic warden during school AM and PM peak periods.
Children crossings operate during school zone times:
- Morning: 7:30am-9am
- Afternoon: 2:30pm-4pm
Requests for children’s crossings must be initiated by a school’s principal or parent body, such as the Parents and Citizens' Association. The school should contact the City via email at info@joondalup.wa.gov.au, so suitability of the proposed location can be confirmed. Should the location be suitable, an application to the WA Police’s Children’s Crossing Unit is required. More information can be found at the WA Government website.
Type A: High pedestrian and vehicle volumes and are usually staffed by a WA Police appointed warden.
Type B: Lower volumes of pedestrians and vehicles and can be staffed by a school appointed warden or left unstaffed.
There is currently, a widespread shortage of traffic wardens in the Perth metropolitan area and this has impacted many new and current children’s crossings.
Traffic wardens are employed part-time and trained by the WA Police. Applications can be made through the WA Government website.
If a warden is not present, children should use extra caution as cars are not required to give way to pedestrians. Parents and schools are encouraged to report any concerns to the Children’s Crossing Unit.
Contact the Children’s Crossings Unit at WA Police:
- Phone: (08) 6274 8767
- Email: childrenscrossingsunitsmail@police.wa.gov.au
Traffic management
The closing of any road requires approval from the WA Police and the City. There may be instances where a traffic management plan from an authorised traffic management company is also required.
Fees do apply to lodge a traffic management plans for any temporary modifications to the road environment. As there are specific standards that must be met for traffic management plans, it is likely the company submitting the plan will include this as part of the overall cost of undertaking the works.
If the pool company needs to fully or partially close a road, a traffic management plan is required. This applies even if it is only for a few hours.