In order to set and maintain speed limits on City streets, Engineering & Traffic Speed Surveys must be periodically conducted as set forth in the California State Vehicle Code in order to provide proper and enforceable speed limits. You can use the City's GIS Portal to explore the results of speed surveys.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are based on:
- Radar measured speeds
- Physical roadway characteristics
- Accident history
- Daily traffic volumes
- Adjacent land uses
CVC Section 22352 sets the prima facie speed limits in California. The term prima facie, as used in the CVC, is a speed limit that applies when no other specific speed limit is posted. It is a Latin term meaning “at first face” or “at first appearance.” It sets two speed limits covering six classes of location.
- 15 mph: Applicable to uncontrolled railway crossings; blind, uncontrolled intersections; and alleyways.
- 25 mph: Applicable to business and residential areas without other posted speed limits; school zones; and areas immediately around senior centers.
The California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices provides the procedures for preparing an engineering & traffic survey.
