FAQ


What is NL511?

NL511 is a free traveller information service, operated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, which may be accessed via phone, mobile device or computer. The service provides winter highway conditions, construction roadwork, weather, incidents and ferry service updates. Users within Newfoundland and Labrador may access the information toll-free via landline or mobile phone by simply calling 511. Computer and mobile device users can visit www.NL511.ca. The NL511 app is available on the Google Play and Apple App Store for free download to mobile phones. Automated advisories are also available on X @NL511Updates. Having both phone-in, website and mobile components ensures NL511 is available to the widest range of users.


Is this service accessible in every region of Newfoundland and Labrador?

Yes. Just dial 511 or visit online at www.NL511.ca for free, instant access.


What kind of information can I get from NL511?

Calling 511 via telephone will provide such information as:

  • Winter road conditions on provincial highways;
  • Construction activity along highways; and
  • Ferry service status.

Visiting www.NL511.ca online will provide:

  • Winter road conditions on provincially owned highways and collector routes;
  • Construction, incidents and activities along major highways displayed on a map graphic;
  • Ferry service status and marine weather;
  • Traffic camera images;
  • Links to partners' websites or information pages; and
  • Environment Canada weather.

How can I call NL511 if I am travelling in another province or state?

Get road and ferry information from outside Newfoundland and Labrador by dialing toll-free 1-833-616-5511 or 1-833-61NL511


If I have an emergency on the highway, can I call 511 for assistance?

No. Always call 911 for any emergency.


Where does the information provided on NL511 come from?

Winter road conditions, construction/maintenance, and ferry information are provided by Department of Transportation and Infrastructure field staff or contracted operators.


How often is the information updated on NL511?

  • Information on winter road conditions are updated three times daily or whenever significant changes occur. The information provided reflects the latest reported conditions.
  • Information on roadwork is updated as construction phases begin and when the work is completed or whenever significant changes occur.
  • Information concerning major events along highways resulting in significant disruptions is updated every time new developments occur or when the event ends.
  • Ferry information is updated regularly throughout the day and when significant delays occur.

How much will it cost me to call 511?

Use of the 511 service is free for travellers within Newfoundland and Labrador. Data usage rates may be applied by mobile service providers.


Why have the road report condition descriptions changed?

Canadian road authorities have worked together to develop a new and consistent vocabulary as part of 511 systems being implemented by jurisdictions throughout the country. Changes to road condition descriptions in NL are consistent with the national recommendations.


Is it permissible to use NL511 while driving?

The use of hand-held devices with a telephone function, such as cell phones or smart phones (for example, android, BlackBerry, iPhone, etc.), is prohibited when driving. Operating an automobile requires your full attention and concentration. Refer to the Highway Traffic Act for laws about the use of mobile devices while driving.


How can I obtain traveller information, such as winter road conditions, in neighbouring provinces?

Dialing 511 in any province with a 511 service, will provide road conditions for that province. Obtain traveller information while travelling elsewhere in Canada by using the toll free numbers or website links below:

Province Telephone Website
Nova Scotia 1-888-780-4440 https://511.novascotia.ca
Prince Edward Island N/A https://511.gov.pe.ca
Quebec 1-888-355-0511 https://www.quebec511.info
New Brunswick 1-800-561-4063 https://511.gnb.ca
Ontario 1-866-929-4257 https://511on.ca
Manitoba N/A https://www.manitoba511.ca
Saskatchewan 1-888-335-7623 https://hotline.gov.sk.ca/map.html
Alberta 1-855-391-9743 https://511.alberta.ca
British Columbia N/A https://drivebc.ca
Yukon N/A https://511yukon.ca
Northwest Territories N/A https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways/Highway-Conditions
Nunavut N/A N/A

Why are there Construction and Future Construction map icons?

Construction map icon identify when a construction activity or lane restriction is currently in place. Future Construction map icon indicates that a major construction activity or lane restriction is currently not in place but is scheduled to start over the coming days or weeks. Additional information on the upcoming activity is available by clicking the map icon. Future Construction map icon will turn to Construction map icon on the first day of activity.


What are Advisories?

Advisories are special bulletins issued to advise of challenging situations that require public attention and appropriate action.


What does "Travel Not Recommended" mean?

Severe road condition is ongoing, recommend public to not travel. Maintenance and/or ice and snow clearing services may be suspended during this advisory.


What does “Closed” mean?

A highway and/or adjacent highways have become impassable due to extensive infrastructure damage and/or severe weather conditions, this includes emergency response vehicles.