School Zones

When driving in a residential neighborhood, the speed limit is

Residential areas in Wisconsin typically have a default speed limit of 25 MPH to ensure safety for pedestrians and children.

If you enter a school zone during active school hours, the speed limit is

Wisconsin law requires drivers to reduce speed to 20 MPH in school zones when children are present or lights are flashing.

When you approach a school bus with flashing red lights

Drivers must stop at least 10 feet away from a school bus displaying flashing red lights unless on a divided highway.

If you are on the opposite side of a divided highway from a school bus

In Wisconsin, divided highways with a median allow opposite-direction traffic to continue without stopping for a school bus.

When driving near parks or playgrounds

These areas require extra caution as children may run into the street unexpectedly. Speed limits are often reduced.

If school is letting out and students are present

When children are arriving or leaving school, reduced speeds and heightened awareness are mandatory by law.

When you see flashing yellow lights in a school zone

Flashing lights indicate the school zone is active. Failing to slow can result in fines and points.

If driving through residential areas with poor visibility

Weather, parked cars, or obstructions increase risk in neighborhoods—slower driving reduces accident chances.

When approaching crosswalks near schools or playgrounds

Wisconsin law requires you to stop for pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks near schools or parks.

If you fail to stop for a school bus with flashing lights

Passing a stopped school bus is illegal and may result in fines, license points, and possible suspension.

When children are entering or exiting a bus

Drivers must wait until all children are safely off the roadway and the bus lights stop flashing.

If a child enters the street from between parked cars

Residential areas pose high risk for unexpected movement; driving slowly gives you time to react.

When navigating speed bumps in residential zones

Speed bumps are traffic calming tools meant to slow vehicles and increase neighborhood safety.

If you are within 500 feet of a school crossing

Wisconsin requires drivers to watch for signs and slow down as they approach designated school crossings.

When no speed sign is posted in a school or residential area

Always use the default safe speed if no signs are present. Safety is prioritized in these zones due to pedestrian presence.