New Road Rules Relating to Skateboards, Scooters, Roller-Blades, Bicycles and other Wheeled Recreational Devices

As of 1 July 2002 local Councils have the power to declare “No Go” areas and police will be able to confiscate skateboards under Tasmania’s new regime for the use of skateboards, roller-blades, scooters, bicycles and other wheeled recreational devices.

The new rules, which are part of Tasmania’s commitment under the Australian Road Rules Agreement, will provide a system where the use of skateboards and similar devices is properly regulated, providing better protection for pedestrians.

The introduction of the rules follows an extensive community consultation process conducted under the auspices of the Tasmanian Skating Committee, which advises the State Government.

The Burnie City Council has declared the following areas within the CBD “No Go” zones:

• Mount Street, from North Terrace to Ladbrooke Street;
• Wilson Street, from North Terrace to Ladbrooke Street;
• Wilmot Street, from Mount Street to Marine Terrace;
• Cattley Street, from Mount Street to Marine Terrace;
• Alexander Street – east side, from Wilmot Street to Cattley Street;
• Burnie City Council Basement Car Park;
• Marine Place – open space area west of the Multistorey Car Park, Marine Terrace; and
• Cinema Car Park – abutting Wilmot Street.
• Multistorey Car Park.

Under the new rules, skaters will be banned from all highways and major roads, from any road, which has a speed limit higher than 60km/h, marked carriageways or centre-line markings.

Skaters under 12 years old will be banned from all roads and skating will be prohibited on roads after dark.
As of July 1, 2001 the use of bicycles on footpaths will also be governed by new regulations.

Skaters and cyclists are able to ride on footpaths however they must keep to the left, give-way to pedestrians and ride with due care and attention.

A skater or cyclist who contravenes one of the new rules may receive an on-the-spot fine or may be summonsed to Court.  Police will also have the power to confiscate a skateboard for seven (7) days.

A targeted education campaign is being conducted to advise the community of the changes to the rules and what they mean, with special emphasis given to young people.  This includes the development of a code of conduct for skaters, which explains the details of the new rules.

Should you require further information regarding the new rules please contact the Department of Infrastructure Energy and Resources on 131 105.

BURNIE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

“NO GO” ZONES SHOWN AS SHADED