School Zone Sign
The school zone sign marks the beginning of a reduced speed area near a school. In Ontario, the default school zone speed is 40 km/h or as posted, and applies during school hours and when children are present.
Last updated: April 4, 2026
A school zone is a designated area around a school where a lower speed limit applies to protect children. Ontario law requires drivers to slow down and exercise extra caution when children are present. The speed limit in most Ontario school zones is 40 km/h, though some municipalities post 30 km/h. The zone typically applies on school days during posted hours.
Quick Facts
Type
Regulatory Sign
Shape
Rectangular
Colours
White background with black text; may include a fluorescent yellow-green school warning panel above
In this guide
What does the School Zone Sign mean?
A school zone is a designated area around a school where a lower speed limit applies to protect children. Ontario law requires drivers to slow down and exercise extra caution when children are present. The speed limit in most Ontario school zones is 40 km/h, though some municipalities post 30 km/h. The zone typically applies on school days during posted hours.
What to do when you see it
Reduce speed to the posted school zone limit when entering. Watch for children crossing the road, playing near the curb, or running out from between parked cars. Be prepared to stop for school patrols and crosswalk guards. Do not pass vehicles stopped for school buses in school zones.
Where you'll see it in Ontario
School zone signs are placed at the boundaries of the reduced speed zone near elementary and secondary schools throughout Ontario. They appear on all approaches to the school from surrounding streets. They are usually accompanied by pavement markings and a school warning sign further in advance.
G1 test relevance
G1 test questions address both the speed in school zones and the rules around stopping for school buses and school patrols near schools. Many candidates fail to know that community safety zones near schools carry doubled fines for all traffic offences.
Common mistakes drivers make
Speeding through school zones because school does not appear to be in session is a very common error. The reduced speed applies whenever children are visible, not just during class times. Another mistake is failing to stop for a school patrol holding a stop paddle.
Related Signs
Speed Limit Sign
The speed limit sign is a white rectangular sign showing the maximum legal speed in kilometres per hour for that section of road. Drivers must not exceed the posted number under normal conditions.
Learn moreSchool Warning Sign
The school warning sign is a fluorescent yellow-green diamond sign that warns drivers they are approaching a school zone where children may be crossing the road. It is placed in advance of the school zone boundary.
Learn moreSchool Bus Stop Ahead Sign
The school bus stop ahead sign warns that a school bus regularly stops to load or unload students at a stop near this location. Drivers must be prepared to stop when the bus activates its red alternating lights.
Learn moreCommunity Safety Zone Sign
A community safety zone is a designated area around schools, playgrounds, or other places where children gather. All traffic fines for speeding, disobeying signs, and other offences are doubled inside these zones.
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