Drivers take notice: Changes to speed limits in school zones as kids head back to school

As students head back to school in September, you may notice that the speed limit signs are different. The City has been updating speed limits in school zones on major roads and local roads. Last fall, Mississauga City Council approved a report with amendments to change the posted speed limits in school zones. The work has been taking place over the course of this year, and will continue into early 2026. The new speed limits only apply once the new signs are installed. Follow the posted speed limit to avoid a fine, so keep an eye out for changes.

School zones on major roads

New speed limits are being established in school zones on major roads across the city. Depending on the location, speed limits may be set for a specific time of day or it may be constant throughout the day. This will affect 31 school zones on major roads with speeds ranging between 40 and 60 km/h.

Signage will look different than before. Flashing 40 km/h speed limit signs will no longer be placed on these roads. Instead, the City will be installing new school zone warning signs with a single flashing light. Staff are expected to finish updating the speed limits on major roads by September 2025.

As part of this update, all school zones on major roads have been designated as Community Safety Zones and will be eligible for automated speed enforcement. That means you may start to see speed cameras in school zones on major roads.

Many set fines are doubled in these zones, such as speeding and traffic-signal related offences. This move will help increase public safety by helping to reduce aggressive driving and speeding.

School zones on local roads

Mississauga currently has 199 school zones on local roads. Speed limits in school zones on local roads will be changed to time-of-day 30 km/h from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday. Outside of these times, the speed limit will be 40 km/h.

Work has already started and is expected to be completed in 2026.

Driving in school zones

As the beginning of the school year approaches, it’s important to be mindful of road safety to help prevent collisions and ensure that everyone arrives at their destination safely.

If you’re driving in a school zone, remember to:

• Drive at or under the posted speed limit.
• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, especially when turning and in areas with many stopped cars.
• Follow the crossing guard’s stop sign.
• Stop for school buses with flashing red lights.
• Follow signage and rules, especially at drop-off and pick-up locations.

Learn more about road safety: mississauga.ca/roadsafety

Tags

• Roads and Traffic
• Transportation