Is a permit required for temporary works on the road?

Almost always — councils and VicRoads / Department of Transport and Planning require a works on road permit, sometimes including a Memorandum of Authorisation (MoA). We handle these on your behalf.

How long does temporary traffic management take to set up?

Typical setup is 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on site complexity, including signage, cone placement, and controller briefing.

Roadworks & Civil · Civil Works· Short-Term· Resurfacing

Temporary Traffic Control for Civil Works

Temporary traffic control for civil works means a compliant Traffic Guidance Scheme, qualified controllers, hi-vis signage, and rapid mobilisation — for jobs that might only run a few hours. Short-term doesn't mean low-risk; the same compliance applies.

Damian Reale · Operations Manager 15 August 2025 Updated 25 May 2026 2 min read

Cherry picker on a Melbourne street during civil utility works

Key takeaways

Any works that change normal road use need a TGS — duration doesn't exempt you.
Common civil works needing TTC: resurfacing, footpath repairs, tree removal, utility works, drainage upgrades.
Same-day or short-notice works can be set up if planned correctly.

What civil works need temporary traffic control?

Road resurfacing and patching
Footpath repairs and access works
Utility connections (power, water, gas, telecoms)
Tree removal and arborist works
Drainage upgrades and inspections
Council maintenance and street furniture works

What's in a proper temporary TGS?

A compliant Traffic Guidance Scheme includes signage selection, taper lengths, buffer zones, controller positioning, and pedestrian routing — designed to AS 1742.3 and matched to the road class and traffic volume.

Can you mobilise same-day for urgent works?

Yes for emergency response — we maintain 24/7 callout capability. Planned same-day works depend on crew availability; we recommend at least 24 hours' notice for predictable works.

What's the consequence of not having it?

Council fines, work stop orders, public liability exposure, and possible WorkSafe Victoria action if an incident occurs. No civil works should run without it.

FAQ

Frequently asked.

Is a permit required for temporary works on the road?: Almost always — councils and VicRoads / Department of Transport and Planning require a works on road permit, sometimes including a Memorandum of Authorisation (MoA). We handle these on your behalf.
How long does temporary traffic management take to set up?: Typical setup is 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on site complexity, including signage, cone placement, and controller briefing.

Related services

Traffic Control Traffic Management Plans Permits

Written by

Damian Reale

Operations Manager, MLA Traffic

Operations Manager at MLA Traffic and MLD Corporation. Damian works across crew coordination, on-site compliance, equipment logistics, and permit pathways with VicRoads and Melbourne councils.