Trencher – wheeled

Find out about conditional registration, acceptable uses and equipment requirements for wheeled trenchers.

On this page

What is a trencher?

A trencher, also known as a trench digger, is used to dig trenches, install drainage and lay pipes and electrical cables.

You need a Car (Class C) licence to drive a trencher.

Conditional registration for trenchers

Trencher – wheeled

Trenchers need to be conditionally registered to be used on public roads and road-related areas.

Conditional registration gives you limited road access to perform specific functions.

You cannot get conditional registration if a vehicle that complies with the construction and equipment requirements of the Australian Design Rules can be used to perform the same function.

See information about vehicle standards to see what standards apply.

Find out how to apply for conditional registration for a trencher.

Oversize vehicle operators

Vehicles that go beyond the dimension and weight limits must comply with the conditions of the relevant access notice or permit. To find out the conditions for:

  • NSW permits – contact Special Permits Unit on 1300 656 371
  • interstate permits – contact National Heavy Vehicle Regulator on 1300 696 487.

Conditions of use

The following minimum conditions apply to conditional registration.

ConditionCode
Daylight / floodlit worksite use onlyTD1
Flashing amber beacon required and used when vehicle movingSL1
Vehicle to be floated from site to site (except that it can operate in areas designated in LO3)LO99
Restricted to designated areas / routesLO3 + free text
Steering failure warning device / sign required
Note: Applies only to vehicle with hydraulic steering
SL99

Equipment requirements

To receive conditional registration you must ensure that the following equipment requirements are met.

EquipmentDaylight/floodlit use
Amber rotating beaconYes
Brake and turn lightsYes
Headlights, tail, number plate and clearance lightsNo
Rear reflectorsYes
Rear and side reflective tapeNo
Rear vision mirror(s)Yes
HornYes

Lighting

All lighting must be fitted as near as possible to the position specified in Schedule 2 of:

Transport for NSW office use

Code TypeCode
Vehicle shapeEWP / RWP
Compulsory Third Party insurance class

Conditional registration - PLNT

Unregistered Vehicle Permit - UPLN

Registration usagePLNT / RDWK / RDWN (if NRTC vehicle over 4.5 tonnes GVM)

 

Top of page