Turn prohibitionCanada

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Canada. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


21. Turn prohibition

A turn prohibition prevents drivers from turning in the direction indicated by a traffic sign. It may prohibit a left turn, a right turn or a U-turn at an intersection or along a specified section of road.

Drivers must continue along a permitted route and follow any lane arrows or mandatory-direction signs. A turn prohibition does not itself determine priority or speed, and any exemption for cyclists, public transport or other road users must be expressly indicated.

Turn prohibition
Turn-prohibition sign at Islington Avenue and Bloor Street. (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Wikimedia.org • GTD Aquitaine • CC0
What does a no-turn sign prohibit in Canada?

It prohibits the left, right or other turn shown at the junction or position controlled by the sign in Canada. Follow any supplementary panel or authorised direction and choose another legal route.

🔗 ontario-traffic-council.s3.amazonaws.com • Ontario Traffic Manual Book5, December2021 — regulatory signs, lane and school/community controls; Ontario scope

🔗 icbc.com • ICBC — Learn to Drive Smart, March2026, comparative signs and safe-driving guidance; BC scope

Does a no-left-turn sign always prohibit a U-turn in Canada?

Do not decide whether a U-turn is permitted from a no-left-turn sign alone. Check separate U-turn signs and the provincial and local rules. For example, British Columbia restricts U-turns at traffic lights and in other specified circumstances, even without a separate no-U-turn sign.

🔗 icbc.com • ICBC, Learn to Drive Smart full current guide

🔗 bclaws.gov.bc.ca • British Columbia, current Motor Vehicle Act

Can a no-turn restriction apply only to certain vehicles or hours in Canada?

Yes, where the local sign system provides a supplementary condition or exemption, such as a vehicle class, time or authorised access. Without a valid exception, comply with the prohibited movement shown.

🔗 ontario-traffic-council.s3.amazonaws.com • Ontario Traffic Manual Book5, December2021 — regulatory signs, lane and school/community controls; Ontario scope

🔗 icbc.com • ICBC — Learn to Drive Smart, March2026, comparative signs and safe-driving guidance; BC scope

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