Special rules for agricultural vehicles, slow-moving vehicles and work on/along the road
Agricultural vehicles on the road
A tractor is a road vehicle when it uses a public road, not a lawless field machine. It must be registered, insured and roadworthy, and the driver must obey signs, signals, speed limits and right-of-way rules. Entering a road from a field, track or farm yard requires yielding to all road traffic. Remove mud from wheels and clean the road if spillage creates a skid risk.
Slow-moving vehicles
A slow-moving vehicle sign is used for vehicles below the speed threshold set by the code, commonly 25 km/h. It warns others but gives no priority. Keep right, use laybys to release queues, and avoid peak traffic where possible. Wide implements may need an escort, additional marking or a permit.
Work on or along the road
Roadside mowing, spraying or harvesting requires planning. Use high-visibility clothing, warning signs, cones or a warning vehicle as required, and never leave an unmarked implement in a live lane. Protect workers and pedestrians, and stop work if visibility or traffic makes it unsafe. Do not let branches, pipes or implements swing into the carriageway.
Worked example
A contractor mows a verge beside a busy road. Reasoning: the tractor and mower need warning signs and high-visibility marking, the work should be arranged so the mower does not encroach on the lane, and a lookout or escort may be needed. The driver must still give way when entering the road and must not rely on the beacon to stop traffic.
Traps
Assuming field rules apply on the road; using a slow-moving sign as a priority claim; leaving an implement unmarked; and working a wide mower without warning traffic.