California drivers may be seeing different speed-limit signs around schools than they are used to. A change to the state’s school-zone rules took effect at the beginning of 2026, giving cities and counties new authority to lower speeds around schools before a broader statewide change takes effect.
Some California cities are already making the change
Under Assembly Bill 382, which took effect January 1, 2026, local authorities can establish a 20-mph prima facie speed limit in a school zone through an ordinance or resolution. That authority remains available through January 1, 2031.
Saratoga is one of the clearest examples of a city that has already acted. The city says its updated speed regulations ordinance was adopted by the City Council on January 21, and 80 new signs have since been installed at eligible school locations. The changes aren’t limited to 20 mph, as Saratoga lists several streets where the speed limit is now 15 mph, as well as a number of locations with new 20-mph limits.
Fresno is taking a broader approach. Its City Council voted unanimously in February to move forward with lowering school-zone speed limits from 25 mph to 20 mph across the city. According to The Fresno Bee, the city has been working on replacing about 800 school zone speed limit signs.
What changes for L.A. drivers?
For people driving around Los Angeles and elsewhere in Southern California, the most important rule is straightforward: follow the speed shown on the posted school-zone sign.
California’s DMV still describes 25 mph as the standard speed limit within 500 feet of a school when children are outside or crossing, while noting that some school zones can already have limits as low as 15 mph. The new law is setting up a larger statewide change. Beginning January 1, 2031, California will establish a 20-mph prima facie speed limit in school zones when the required signage and conditions are in place.
Until then, however, implementation can happen locally. A school zone in one California city may have a different posted limit from one in another city. Don’t assume every school zone changed to 20 mph this year, but don’t assume they’re all still 25 mph either. Check the signs when driving near schools, particularly as local agencies begin implementing the new limits.
