Restricted Area
The sign indicates a restricted area that must not be entered.
When You See This Sign
When you see a blocked-off area, do not drive into it; instead change lanes or adjust your route in good time. Follow road markings and any arrow or sign instructions, and respect temporary yellow markings at roadworks.
Rules & Regulations
- The blocked-off area sign (M9) marks an area on the carriageway that must not be entered — it is forbidden to drive into, stop in, or park within the area.
- The prohibition applies to all road users: motor vehicles, mopeds, bicycles, and pedestrians are covered by the ban.
- Exceptions only apply when clearly directed by the police or by an explicit temporary traffic regulation that states otherwise.
- Driving in or blocking a blocked-off area can create dangerous traffic conditions and may lead to fines or other penalties under traffic laws.
Tips for Drivers
- Plan lane changes well in advance and change lanes before the start of the blocked-off area instead of trying to drive over the marking.
- Never use the blocked-off area as space to pass a queue or make room — keep your distance and wait in your lane.
- Note the color of the marking: white means a permanent blocked-off area, yellow is used temporarily at roadworks — neither may be entered.
- If you are forced into the blocked-off area for any reason (for example, to avoid an accident), return to the lane as soon as it is safe and follow any directions from the police.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the blocked-off area may be used to shortcut turns or as an extra lane during congestion.
- Assuming bicycles or mopeds are exempt from the prohibition and therefore may ride in the area.
- Misinterpreting the blocked-off area as merely a recommendation or decorative marking rather than a prohibition.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Restricted Area
What applies to the area marked here?
- A It is a hatched area that must not be entered or driven on.
- B It is a marked parking zone where short-term parking is allowed.
- C It shows a walking-speed area where vehicles are allowed to drive slowly.
- D It is a bus parking area where only buses may park.
Exam Tip
On the theory test you may be asked to distinguish between the meaning of white and yellow blocked-off markings or be given a scenario where you must say whether it is allowed to pass through a blocked-off area in a queue — remember: neither color may be entered and exceptions are only granted by police direction or a clear temporary traffic regulation.
Did You Know?
Blocked-off areas are road markings (code M9) and differ from vertical road signs because they are painted directly on the carriageway. Permanent blocked-off areas are usually white, while temporary ones at roadworks are often yellow.
Frequently Asked Questions
May I pass through the blocked-off area if it looks empty?
No. The blocked-off area must not be entered even if it appears clear. You may use the area only if the police or an explicit temporary traffic regulation indicates otherwise.
What does the difference between white and yellow blocked-off areas mean?
White marking indicates a permanent blocked-off area and yellow marking is used temporarily at roadworks or provisional diversions. Both types are prohibited for driving into or stopping in.
Does the prohibition also apply to cyclists and pedestrians?
Yes. The prohibition covers all road users, including bicycles and mopeds. Use separate cycle or pedestrian paths if such exist.
Can the police or signs allow me to use a blocked-off area?
Yes. An official direction from the police or a clear temporary traffic regulation can lift the prohibition in the specific case. Always follow such instructions when they are present.
Practice more in the app
Study Swedish road signs and driving theory in English. 314 signs with rules, tips and quizzes.