Let’s keep our school roadways safe this September

As the new school year begins, more children will be walking and biking in and around school areas. To help keep everyone safe, drivers are reminded to slow down, follow posted speed limits, and respect all traffic signs, including no parking and no stopping zones.

Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will be actively monitoring school zones and enforcing parking regulations to protect pedestrians. Please do not park in fire routes, block driveways, or obstruct sidewalks.

Let’s work together to make school routes safe for everyone.

Important Safety Reminders

No Stopping Zones

Stopping is not permitted, even for quick drop-offs or pick-ups.
These zones are located where stopping could cause traffic hazards, congestion, or interfere with school crossings.
Fines increase with each violation: $60 → $80 → $100.

No Parking Zones

Brief stops are allowed for actively picking up or dropping off children—drivers must stay in the vehicle.
Parking while waiting is not allowed.
Fines range from $40 to $80, depending on the location.
Fire route fines are higher: $100 → $120 → $140.

School Crossing Zones

Please follow the City's three-whistle system used by crossing guards:

First Whistle – Guard enters the road with stop sign; traffic must stop.
Second Whistle – Signals it’s safe for children to cross.
Third Whistle – After all children have crossed, the guard clears the road, and traffic may resume.

Driver Responsibilities:

Watch for children and be prepared to stop at any time
Wait until all children have fully crossed before proceeding
Slow down in school zones
Stop for crossing guards holding a stop paddle
Obey school bus signals
Follow all traffic signs and signals
Stay alert for children near or between vehicles

School Bus Loading Zones

Reserved exclusively for school buses or vehicles under contract with the school boards
Stopping or parking is strictly prohibited, even briefly
Fines escalate: $45 → $65 → $85

Community Safety Zones

Designated areas near schools and other public spaces with increased safety concerns
Carry enhanced penalties for violations like speeding or careless driving
Durham Regional Police and Municipal Law Enforcement conduct active enforcement in these zones

40 km/h Areas

These residential areas are reduced from 50 km/h to 40 km/h to enhance safety.
Clearly marked signs are posted at all entrances and exits of the neighbourhood to indicate where the 40 km/h area speed limits are in effect.

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