Is there a speed limit near parks in California? Can I get a ticket? See the law
From switching lanes in an intersection to parking next to a stop sign, the California Vehicle Code has several rules for drivers to follow.
After reading about speed limit enforcement around school zones in the summer, a reader asked our journalists with How to California — a community-driven series to help readers navigate life in the Golden State: What are the rules — and signs — drivers should watch for around parks?
Here’s what California law says:
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What’s the speed limit around parks in California?
Under California Vehicle Code 22357.1, drivers must slow to 25 mph on streets next to public parks with playgrounds — but only during certain hours.
Park hours in California can vary by city and season.
In Merced, parks are typically open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., while in Modesto and Sacramento, most parks open from dawn to dusk.
The vehicle code says the reduced speed limit is only enforced if signs are posted to notify drivers.
However, parks are generally located in or near residential areas where the speed limit is already 25 mph, regardless of whether children are present.
What signs should be posted around parks?
Signs marking the 25 mph speed limit are typically posted near parks to alert drivers, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
The state department said drivers should also look out for pedestrian crossing signs and yellow “playground” signs — which both serve as additional warnings to slow down and watch for children.
How is the speed limit around parks enforced?
According to the University of California, Berkeley, radar enforcement isn’t required in residential areas or near parks with playgrounds.
Instead, officers must visually observe a driver speeding in order to issue a citation.
What are the consequences for getting caught speeding?
According to Shouse California Law Group, the cost of a speeding ticket can range from $35 to more than $500, not including additional court costs and assessments.
If you are cited for speeding in California, the California Courts website states you can either pay the fine, do traffic school or argue the ticket in the local court where you received the ticket.
Along with speeding fines, a ticket could also lead to one point on your California driver’s record.
If you choose to complete traffic school or fight the ticket successfully, you can avoid getting points on your DMV record, the California Courts website states.
This story was originally published June 17, 2025 at 3:00 AM with the headline "Is there a speed limit near parks in California? Can I get a ticket? See the law."
