Temporary Exclusive Secondary Message Signs
(South Africa) Distance "For" Limit Sign (Text)
R535
Below an appropriate regulatory sign.
To indicate for which distance ahead the sign applies to.
You need to comply with the primary sign for distance ahead as displayed.
Overview The Distance “For” Limit Sign (Text) (Temporary Exclusive Secondary Message Sign) in South Africa is a supplementary panel placed beneath a main regulatory traffic sign. It indicates the length of road ahead over which the main sign’s restriction or instruction applies. What the Sign Means When this sign is displayed, it tells drivers that the rule shown on the main sign is valid for a specified distance ahead (e.g., “FOR 2 km”). After that distance ends, the restriction no longer applies unless repeated or extended by another sign. The key rule is: the restriction applies continuously for the distance stated on the panel. How It Works in Practice The main regulatory sign sets the rule (e.g., no overtaking, speed limit, no stopping) The “FOR” panel specifies how far the rule applies (e.g., 500 m, 2 km) The restriction begins at the sign and continues for the stated distance After that distance, normal road rules resume unless otherwise indicated Driver Responsibilities Read both the main sign and the distance panel together Comply with the restriction for the full stated distance Do not assume the rule ends early unless a cancellation sign appears Stay alert for changes in road conditions within the specified distance Where You Will See This Sign This sign is commonly used: In roadworks or temporary traffic control zones On highways with extended restrictions (e.g., no overtaking zones) Near hazardous road sections such as curves, bridges, or steep descents In areas requiring controlled traffic flow over a defined distance Purpose of the Sign The purpose of the Distance “For” Limit Sign is to clearly define how long a restriction applies, helping drivers understand the extent of controlled zones and maintain safe, consistent behaviour over that distance. Common Mistakes to Avoid Ignoring the distance and ending compliance too early Assuming the restriction applies indefinitely Failing to monitor distance travelled after passing the sign Missing follow-up signs that extend or cancel the restriction Safety Tips Estimate or track the distance after passing the sign Stay consistent with the restriction until the distance ends Watch for end-of-restriction or new regulatory signs Be extra cautious in temporary or hazardous zones Penalties for Ignoring the Sign Ignoring a Distance “For” Limit Sign may result in: Fines or enforcement penalties Violations of speed, overtaking, or stopping rules Increased risk of accidents in controlled zones Summary The Distance “For” Limit Sign (Text) in South Africa indicates the length of road ahead over which a restriction applies. It ensures drivers maintain compliance for the full specified distance, improving safety and traffic control.