FAQ About Road And Parking Cones
General Questions
Traffic cones are used to redirect vehicles, indicate hazards, and mark off restricted zones for safety purposes.
On private land, yes. On public roads, it is illegal without council permission under UK road law.
No. Only authorised parties like councils or contractors may legally place cones on public streets.
Local councils, Highways England, and emergency services may authorise the use of traffic cones.
Public road cones must generally be 750mm or taller and have reflective bands.
Yes, they are legally required for cones used at night on public roads.
BS EN 13422 defines UK standards for cone design, material and reflectivity.
Yes, anyone can purchase cones for private property, parking management or events.
Yes, cones are often used to manage or reserve parking spaces on private land.
Yes. Fines or removal may apply if cones obstruct public areas unlawfully.
Usage and Applications
Only on private driveways. Blocking public access may be illegal.
Yes, they are commonly used for guiding traffic and managing queues at events.
Yes. Couriers and logistics firms use cones for loading/unloading zones.
Yes. Mini or lightweight cones are suitable for indoor spaces or warehouse safety.
Construction, utilities, logistics, education, and events all use traffic cones.
Yes, but stability is reduced. Use weighted cones for uneven surfaces.
Yes. They manage vehicle flow and mark off restricted areas.
Yes. Many suppliers offer branding options for commercial use.
Yes. Cones are used indoors to restrict access during maintenance.
Yes. They are used in sports days, parking management, and playground safety.
Types and Sizes
Common sizes include 450mm, 750mm, and 1000mm.
450mm or 500mm cones are ideal for private parking.
Minimum 750mm with reflective collars for UK public roads.
Cones that fold flat for easy storage and are ideal for emergency kits.
Cones with a rubber base for added wind resistance and stability.
Mini cones are used for training, indoor use, and children’s play.
Larger cones made for roadworks and motorway safety.
Yes. Taller cones are more visible from greater distances.
Yes. Minimum sizes apply for road use under UK safety regulations.
Yes, depending on the location and risk level.
Materials and Visibility
Most cones are made from PVC or polyethylene for durability.
Quality cones are UV-resistant and won’t melt under typical UK temperatures.
Cheap cones can become brittle; high-grade ones are cold-resistant.
Yes. They’re designed to withstand rain, fog, and outdoor elements.
Yes. UV exposure can fade colours. Replace faded cones when needed.
Reflective collars and bright colours improve night-time visibility.
Yes. For example, blue cones mark overhead hazards, green for exits.
No. Taller, brighter cones with wide reflective bands offer better visibility.
Durability varies. Outdoor cones may last 2–5 years depending on usage.
Yes. Some cones come with built-in LED lights for enhanced night visibility.