School and Residential Zone

When driving through a residential neighborhood

Residential areas in Minnesota typically have a speed limit of 30 MPH. You must slow down for pedestrians, parked vehicles, or children at play.

If you are driving through a school zone during school hours

School zones have reduced speed limits during school hours. Follow flashing signs or posted times to ensure child safety.

When children are present near a school or playground

Always reduce your speed and prepare to stop suddenly. Children may unexpectedly cross the street or enter the roadway.

If you see a stopped school bus with red flashing lights

Minnesota law requires all vehicles to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing, unless on the opposite side of a divided highway.

When you enter a marked school crossing

Pedestrian crossings in school zones must be obeyed. Failing to yield may result in fines or license penalties.

If you are in a residential zone with no posted speed limit

Even if not posted, the default urban speed limit is 30 MPH. Reduce speed for poor visibility or narrow roads.

When school children are boarding or leaving a bus

Wait until all children are clear of the road and the red lights on the bus are turned off before proceeding.

If you are approaching a crosswalk in a school zone

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way at crosswalks in school zones, and failure to yield can result in serious penalties.

When passing through a park or recreation area

Parks often have reduced speed limits and high pedestrian activity. Driving slowly ensures community safety.

If you are driving near a child care facility

These areas can have unpredictable traffic and small children near the roadway. Drive cautiously and be alert.

When approaching a school zone sign with flashing lights

Flashing school zone signs indicate active school times, and you must comply until the lights go off.

If a crossing guard is present in a school zone

Crossing guards have legal authority to direct traffic and ensure pedestrian safety, especially for children.

When turning in a residential neighborhood

Sudden stops or turns in residential areas can endanger pedestrians and cyclists. Signal and slow down in advance.

If a school bus is stopped in a parking lot or driveway

Even if the bus is not on the main road, nearby children may approach or leave the vehicle from the roadside.

When children are near the curb or sidewalk

Children may dash into the street unexpectedly. Always drive at a cautious speed in areas with visible children.

If you hear a school bell while driving near a school

The start or end of school periods means high foot traffic. Reduce your speed and be ready to stop.

When reversing in a residential area

Small children may be out of sight behind your vehicle. Always check carefully before backing up.

If you see children playing near the road

Kids may chase toys or run into the street without warning. Lower speed improves reaction time and safety.

When driving through an alley in a neighborhood

Alleys have limited visibility and high pedestrian use. Move slowly and stop before crossing sidewalks or roadways.

If you see a yield sign at a residential roundabout

Always yield when entering a roundabout, especially in tight residential areas. Watch for other vehicles and pedestrians.

When approaching a crosswalk with blinking lights

Some school and residential crossings use blinking lights to signal pedestrian activity. Stop fully and proceed only when safe.