Bus services are particularly susceptible to the effects of traffic congestion. Any delays can increase operating costs and lead to higher fares.
Bus lanes and bus gates can:
- quicken journey times
- increase reliability, and
- encourage the use of sustainable transport.
We will issue you with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) if you fail to comply with bus lane or bus gate restrictions.
Bus lanes
The Highway Code (141) states:
'Bus lanes. These are shown by road markings and signs that indicate which (if any) other vehicles are permitted to use the bus lane. Unless otherwise indicated, you should not drive in a bus lane during its period of operation'.
In Cardiff, all bus lanes operate 24 hours a day, every day.
Vehicles that can use bus lanes in Cardiff
Buses
Licenced Hackney carriages
Licenced vehicles for private hire
Pedal cycles
Emergency service vehicles
Motorcycles (without sidecars) can also use most bus lanes in Cardiff. Please check all signage before using a bus lane.
Bus gates
A bus gate is a length of street that effectively creates a shortcut for buses. It can reduce travelling time for passengers by removing through traffic. On some occasions, other vehicles may also be permitted to use a bus gate. These will always be shown on signage.
You should not drive in a bus gate during its period of operation unless you are authorised.
Top tips to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)
- Please make sure you are familiar with all signage relating to bus lanes and bus gates. For example:
Bus lanes:
Bus gates:
Bus lanes are also bounded by a solid white line. You should not cross the line unless permitted.
Please be patient. If traffic is busy in the unrestricted lanes, this does not mean you can use bus lanes or bus gates illegally.
Many people believe that there is a 20 metre grace distance for an unauthorised vehicle to use a bus lane. This '20 metre rule' has no basis in law.
