Traffic Signals & Signs

The City of Coquitlam maintains about 160 traffic control signals and 30,000 signs. The traffic signals inventory includes full signals, fire hall signals, and pedestrian signals. There are also many signals on Coquitlam’s borders which are shared with other communities.

Traffic Signals

Report Problems with Signals

If you spot any problems with a traffic signal, it should be reported right away to Engineering Customer Service at 604-927-3500. Problems include:

  • Damage or vandalism
  • Flashing red in all directions
  • Lights burnt out
  • Trees or other obstacles blocking a clear view of the signal

Common Issues with Traffic Lights

If a signal is completely out, there may be a power fail in the area. Many of Coquitlam’s signals have battery back up and will continue to run for several hours. This is primarily on major routes. If a signal is completely out, 4-way stop procedures must be used.

Does the timing of the signal seem to be off? Two things can temporarily affect the timing of a signal. When power returns, normal operation may take a few minutes to resume. Fire vehicles have the ability to take over control of a signal when responding to an emergency. This may upset the signal timing for a short duration.

Learn About Existing Reports

Anyone can request information about the current timing of traffic signals or whether there has been a reported problem at a signalized intersection in the City. A request for timing information has to be processed by the City’s Traffic Operations Division. There is a cost for this report requests can be made by contacting Engineering Customer Service.

Requests for video footage must be submitted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with an investigation file number.

Street Signs

Coquitlam categorizes road signs into four types:

  • Construction Signs - These are temporary signs which indicate construction activity or crews working.
  • Information and Guide Signs - These include street names, no exit, and Coquitlam boundary signs. These signs are used to provide users of the road with information on getting around.
  • Regulatory Signs - These include parking restrictions, speed limits and stop signs. Regulatory signs designate rules which all users of the road must adhere too.
  • Warning Signs - These include curve ahead, median markers, and dead-end markers. These signs are there to inform road users of potential hazards.

Report Problems with Signs

If you spot any problems with a sign, report it to Engineering Customer Service. It is helpful if you can provide the exact location and type of sign that is of concern. This helps the sign maintenance crews prioritize which repairs need to happen first.

Problems could include:

  • Faded signs
  • Missing signs
  • Trees or other obstacles blocking a clear view of the sign
  • Vandalism

U-Turn Signage

Under section 168 of the Motor Vehicle Act making a U-turn (called a 'reverse turn')  is explicitly prohibited under five conditions:

  • At an intersection with a traffic signal
  • In a business district (except at an unsignalized intersection)
  • Near the crest of a hill
  • On a curve
  • Where prohibited by a sign