For Katherine, the famous Maluka Motors, alongside the Stuart Highway at the intersection with Maluka Road, will be allowed to continue with no permits required,

On other areas, particularly on government road reserves, permits will be needed.

There will be a moratorium of a year.

The NT Government has this week released guidelines into how signage and activities, such as car sales and mobile vendors, are to be managed in government road reserves.

The guidelines seek to regulate signage and activities in Government operated road reserves, improving road safety for Territory road users, and providing more secure signage during adverse weather events.

A moratorium will be put in place to provide businesses a year to comply with the new guidelines and to apply for a permit to advertise or be a mobile vendor in road reserves.

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Director of Transport and Civil Services, Hannah Feneley, said the number of signs and activities in road reserves has increased significantly, creating increased risks to drivers.

"This increase creates an unnecessary risk, and it is important these changes take place to ensure the safest possible road network for motorists in the Territory," Ms Feneley said.

"Extensive consultation with industry and the public was undertaken, and the feedback supported a system for signage and mobile vendors to use road reserves through a transparent permit system.

"We also received a large amount of feedback highlighting the fact signs are often blown over onto the road during storms, causing increased hazard to motorists."

"The changes relate to all owners of signs currently installed, vehicles for sale, and operators of mobile vendors in NT Government managed road reserves, and these Guidelines support specific activities in a safe location through a transparent approval process."

The new Advertising and Activities in NT Government Managed Road Reserves Guidelines have been designed to support businesses without over-regulation, while ensuring the safety of road users.

The guidelines identify specific zones for signs and for activities, as well as the use of information bays and rest areas with a permit. This provides a range of options for business to advertise or sell goods. Permit fees will not apply until after the moratorium ceases in March 2021.

For more information visit the Northern Territory Government website or call 1300 011 151.

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