Traffic Rules & Safety

Establishing an organized system of transportation is key to developing and maintaining a well-operated community where residents and visitors alike feel welcome, safe, and informed. Transportation in the City of New Westminster is regulated by the Provincial Motor Vehicle Act and the City of New Westminster Street & Traffic Bylaw. Both policies standardize city traffic and provide objective guidelines to ensure fair and safe community practice.

Traffic governance

The Provincial Motor Vehicle Act
For province-wide transportation consistency, municipalities must adhere to the definitions and regulations set out in the Provincial Motor Vehicle Act.

The City of New Westminster Street & Traffic Bylaw
The City Street & Traffic Bylaw sets formal guidelines for consistent and organized street and traffic activity.

Traffic Signals

The Engineering Department oversees the design of traffic signals and the Electric Utility is responsible for the operation and maintenance of New Westminster traffic signals.  Visit the Traffic Signals page for more information.

Traffic Governance

The Provincial Motor Vehicle Act
For province-wide transportation consistency Municipalities must adhere to the definitions and regulations set out in the Provincial Motor Vehicle Act.

The City of New Westminster Street & Traffic Bylaw
The City Street & Traffic Bylaw sets formal guidelines for consistent and organized street and traffic activity.

Community Obligations

Snow Removal
Engineering Operations is responsible for snow clearing activities within the City however,  property owners and occupants are reminded that the City’s Street and Traffic Bylaw NO. 6027, 1991 requires snow and ice to be removed from sidewalks abutting their property no later than 10:00am of the day following a snowfall event.

Committees and Associations

Neighbourhood Traffic Advisory Committee
This committee meets to discuss and deliberate city plans, which potentially affect city traffic.

Residents’ Associations
Residents’ Associations are non-political community groups with an interest in neighbourhood issues. The various Associations meet regularly at neighbourhood locations, such as schools and churches, to discuss matters of local concern.