Traffic Control Plans & TCP Design in Ottawa

Traffic Control Plans — What They Are & How MTW Can Help

A Traffic Control Plan (TCP) is a formal, site-specific document that defines how vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist traffic will be safely managed through or around a work zone. Required under the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 7 – Temporary Conditions, a TCP includes scaled drawings showing device placement, sign locations and sizes, lane configurations, taper calculations, buffer zones, detour routes, and all relevant specifications for the temporary traffic control setup.

In Ottawa, a TCP is a mandatory component of every Temporary Construction Encroachment (TCE) permit application — required for any work that temporarily occupies a public road allowance, whether it's a utility repair, road reconstruction, crane operation, or special event. MTO also requires TCPs for work on provincial highways. Without a compliant, professionally prepared plan, permit applications are rejected and work cannot legally proceed.