What Are the Speed Limits in School Zones in Ontario?
School zones in Ontario typically have a speed limit of 40 km/h when posted. Some municipalities set the limit at 30 km/h. Fines are doubled in designated community safety zones, which often include school areas. These limits are active during posted hours, usually on school days.
Key Facts
- Monday to Friday during school days (typically September to June)
- Common time ranges: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Some zones display 'when children are present' or 'when flashing,' meaning the reduced limit applies only when the sign is actively flashing or children are visible
- Outside posted hours or on weekends and holidays, the regular speed limit applies
- Always check the specific wording on the school zone sign in each area
In this article
What Is the Standard School Zone Speed Limit?
Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, there is no single province-wide school zone speed limit. Instead, municipalities set their own limits, with 40 km/h being the most common. Some municipalities, including parts of Toronto, have adopted 30 km/h in school zones. The speed limit is posted on signs at the beginning and end of the school zone. If no reduced speed is posted, the default urban speed limit of 50 km/h applies.
When Are School Zone Speed Limits Active?
School zone speed limits are active during the times posted on the signs. Common active hours include:
- Monday to Friday during school days (typically September to June)
- Common time ranges: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Some zones display 'when children are present' or 'when flashing,' meaning the reduced limit applies only when the sign is actively flashing or children are visible
- Outside posted hours or on weekends and holidays, the regular speed limit applies
- Always check the specific wording on the school zone sign in each area
What Are the Fines for Speeding in a School Zone?
Under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act, fines for speeding in a designated community safety zone (which includes many school zones) are doubled. For example, if the regular fine for driving 20 km/h over the limit is $120, the fine in a community safety zone would be $240. Demerit points are also assigned: 3 points for 16 to 29 km/h over, and 4 points for 30 to 49 km/h over. Excessive speeding in a school zone can result in licence suspension and vehicle impoundment under stunt driving provisions.
What Should You Watch for in School Zones?
According to the Ontario Driver's Handbook, drivers should be extra cautious in school zones because children are unpredictable. Watch for:
- Crossing guards directing traffic. You must stop when they display a stop sign
- Children running into the street, especially near school buses
- School bus with flashing red lights. You must stop at least 20 metres away
- Cyclists and parents walking near the school
- Reduced visibility during drop-off and pick-up times due to congestion
How Do Community Safety Zones Relate to School Zones?
Many school zones in Ontario are designated as community safety zones under the Highway Traffic Act. This designation allows municipalities to double speeding fines in these areas. Community safety zones can also include parks, hospitals, and senior centres. You will see signs that say 'Community Safety Zone' at the beginning and end of the zone. When a school zone is also a community safety zone, the higher fines apply during the school zone's active hours.
Related Questions
How Do Demerit Points Work in Ontario?
Ontario demerit points are added to your licence when you are convicted of certain driving offences. G1 and G2 drivers face stricter consequences: 9 demerit points triggers a licence suspension for novice drivers, compared to 15 for fully licensed drivers. Points are removed 2 years after the offence date.
Read answerCan You Use Your Phone While Driving in Ontario?
No. Ontario's distracted driving law prohibits using handheld devices while driving, including smartphones, tablets, and handheld GPS units. Fines start at $615 for a first conviction and include 3 demerit points. Hands-free use through a mounted or Bluetooth device is permitted.
Read answerWhat Is Distracted Driving in Ontario?
Distracted driving in Ontario includes using a hand-held mobile device, texting, eating, grooming, reading, or programming a hand-held GPS while driving. Ontario has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in Canada. First-time offenders face a fine of up to $1,000, 3 demerit points, and a 3-day licence suspension.
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