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Selective barriersFrance

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of France. 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.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
France

52. Selective barriers

Selective barriers are physical access-control devices that allow certain road users or authorised vehicles to pass while restricting other traffic. They may include fixed, removable, folding or retractable bollards, gates, barriers and width-filtering installations.

The permitted users are determined by traffic signs, access conditions and local regulations, not by the barrier alone. Drivers should approach slowly, verify that they are authorised and wait until any moving barrier is fully open or retracted before continuing.

Selective barriers
Adjustable barriers in Seine-et-Marne, France.
Wikimedia.org • Poudou99 • CC BY
What does a selective barrier control in France?

A bollard, gate, bus filter or other physical access-control device can admit some users and exclude others. It is not a universal traffic-sign category. In France, the relevant sign or local traffic order must be checked.

🔗 equipementsdelaroute.cerema.fr • French road-sign order, Article 5-8, signs EB10 and EB20 — Order Article10-B XK3 barrier embodies associated B0/B1 or R23/R24 control; Strasbourg access classification distinguishes physical closures and authorised-user exceptions. A physical gap alone is no access permission.

🔗 sig.strasbourg.eu • Strasbourg Eurometropolis, official circulation access classifications

May a cyclist or motorcycle rider use a gap beside a selective barrier in France?

Only if the applicable access rule permits that road user and the opening is safe and intended for them. A gap designed for pedestrians or cyclists is not permission for an unauthorised motorcycle or car.

🔗 equipementsdelaroute.cerema.fr • French road-sign order, Article 5-8, signs EB10 and EB20 — Order Article10-B XK3 barrier embodies associated B0/B1 or R23/R24 control; Strasbourg access classification distinguishes physical closures and authorised-user exceptions. A physical gap alone is no access permission.

🔗 sig.strasbourg.eu • Strasbourg Eurometropolis, official circulation access classifications

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