Designated playground zones are an important part of keeping children safe. There are approximately 1,680 playground zones in Calgary. Playground Zones were created to increase the safety of children from motorists traveling through these areas.
When driving through a playground zone, remember:
- Children do not perceive traffic like adults do – extra caution is needed.
- The maximum permitted speed in playground zones is 30 km/h.
- The zones are in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day of the year.
- You may not pass another vehicle within the playground zone during this time.
- Drive carefully and watch for children.
When driving through a playground zone near a school, remember:
- Traffic congestion near schools is problematic. Consider dropping your child off a few blocks away from school.
- Do not double park – it is illegal and dangerous.
- Do not park within 5 metres of a crosswalk to ensure children are visible.
- Do not park in school bus zones.
- Do not park within 1.5 metres (5 feet) of a driveway or garage.
I would like a Playground Zone in my area, how can I get one?
It is possible to request a playground zone sign for spaces with City-approved playground equipment. To request a playground zone sign in your area, please use the online service request below.
eServices - Request a Playground Zone sign
Why were the playground zone times changed in 2014?
The City consulted with the Calgary Police Service, the Alberta Motor Association, Calgary Board of Education, Calgary Catholic School District and other municipalities in Alberta about the possibility of having the same school and playground zone hours. All groups were supportive of changing the hours to one consistent zone.
They felt the ‘one hour after sunset’ end time for playground zones was not effective. Depending on the time of year, the end times could be as early as 5:30 p.m. in winter, and as late as 11 p.m. in summer. The unspecified end time made it difficult for motorists to follow the rules.
The new hours (7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.) reflect the times that playground zones are being used by children and other pedestrians, and provide motorists with consistent and specific times that can be easily remembered.
Is the 9 p.m. end time too late?
No. Approximately 20 per cent of pedestrian collisions in playground zones occur between 6 and 9 p.m. School may be out at 3:30 p.m. but school gyms, classrooms, and other facilities are often used in the evenings for community sports and extracurricular activities. Also, as days get shorter, it becomes increasingly difficult for motorists to see pedestrians, particularly in the evenings. Slowing down to 30 km/h in playground zones helps everyone stay safe.
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