School Zone Speed Limits

School zones have always included the ability to include a reduced school speed limit within the school zone. The current law has two categories of reduced school speeds in school zones.

Zones Adjacent to School Grounds

For these zones, reduced speed limits can be either:

• “When Flashing” or
• “School Days 7AM to 5PM”

Zones at School Crosswalks away from School Grounds

For these zones, reduced speed limits can be either:

• “When Flashing” or
• “When Children are Present”

What does "When Children are Present" mean?

Children are present at any time and on any day when kids are:

• Occupying or walking within a crosswalk
• Waiting on the curb or shoulder of the highway at a crosswalk
• A traffic control member is present to assist children at a crosswalk.

See ORS 811.124.

Resources and Related Content

• "Save Lives... Slow Down in School Zones." (Brochure, English)
• "Salve Vidas... Disminuyala Velocidad en Zonas Escolares." (Folleto, Español)
• A Guide to School Area Safety
• House Bill 2840 - The Revised Speed Zone Law Overview

Oregon's Sign Policy

Sign Policy and Guidelines includes information on school area signs.

Safe Routes to School

• National program site
• Oregon program site
• FHWA program site