Top: zebra crossings on the Blackditch Road. Above: South William Street
Dublin City Council has officially rolled out a new type of pedestrian crossing in the city—signage-only zebra crossings, eliminating the need for flashing beacons.
This change follows updated Department of Transport regulations, allowing for a more cost-effective and efficient installation of pedestrian crossings across Dublin.
Two of these new crossings have already been installed—one on Blackditch Road, Ballyfermot, and another on South William Street—with more planned throughout the year.
What’s Changing?
Under the revised legislation introduced in February 2024, zebra crossings can now rely solely on signage rather than traditional flashing beacons. In December 2024, the rules were further strengthened: vehicles must now stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians who are waiting to cross—not just those already on the crossing.
Dublin City Council is urging all road users to familiarize themselves with these new crossings, which will enhance pedestrian safety while streamlining the process of installing crossings in urban areas.
Why the Change?
Traditionally, zebra crossings featured alternating black and white stripes and were marked by flashing amber beacons. However, a Department of Transport trial—supported by the National Transport Authority—proved that crossings could function safely without beacons. This led to the introduction of three types of zebra crossings:
- Type A: Traditional crossings with flashing amber beacons
- Type B: Crossings using signage only (RUS 066 sign with a fluorescent yellow border)
- Type C: Crossings with no beacons or signs, used in built-up areas with speed limits of 30km/h or lower
Dublin City Council is currently rolling out Type B Zebra Crossings, replacing flashing beacons with signage where appropriate. These will be installed in locations where:
✔ The speed limit is 50 km/h or lower
✔ Traffic volumes are manageable (under 500 vehicles per hour without a refuge island, or 750 with one)
✔ Good visibility and street lighting are in place
✔ There is one traffic lane per direction
More Crossings on the Way
With two signage-only zebra crossings already in place, Dublin City Council plans to expand installations citywide, ensuring safer pedestrian movement while cutting down on the costs and complexities of traditional crossings.
