COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, June 09, 2025

QUESTION NO. 10

QUESTION: Councillor E. Ó Broin

To ask the Chief Executive if An Garda Síochána have the authority to order South Dublin County Council to have road markings such as double yellow lines painted or removed?

REPLY:

In Ireland, An Garda Síochána does not have the power to order a local authority to add or remove road markings directly. The responsibility for the addition or removal of road markings generally lies with the relevant road authority, typically the local county or city council.

However, the Gardaí can advise or make recommendations regarding traffic management, safety issues, and the need for certain road markings (like double yellow lines, pedestrian crossings, etc.). Local authorities usually consider these recommendations seriously because they relate to public safety and traffic regulation.

The current authoritative guidance  for signing and lining is under the Traffic Signs Manual (TSM), which includes the standards for road markings and their application.

Traffic signs and road markings are provided in accordance with signs regulations or directions of the Minister of Transport. They may be laid only by or on behalf of the Road Authority. Markings with the prefix RRM or RPC are regulatory road markings, and attention is drawn to the statutory requirement for the Road Authority to consult with the Garda Commissioner or appropriate delegated officer in the Garda Síochána where such markings are being provided.

In practice An Garda Síochána can:

• Request the local authority to install or modify road markings if they believe it is necessary for road safety (e.g., to reduce accidents, manage traffic, etc.).

• Provide recommendations or traffic management advice as part of the local Road Safety Committee.

• Enforce traffic regulations where statutory road markings are in place.