Burnaby Traffic Calming and School Zone Bylaws

Transportation British Columbia 3 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of British Columbia

Burnaby, British Columbia manages local traffic calming measures and school zone signage through municipal programs and bylaw enforcement coordinated with engineering and transportation services. This guide explains common traffic calming tools, how school zone signage and speeds are applied, who enforces the rules, typical penalties or remedies, and step-by-step actions residents can take to request changes or appeal decisions. It is written for parents, school administrators, community associations, and drivers who need practical instructions on reporting hazards, applying for signs or measures, and following up with the city.

Traffic calming tools and typical placement

Common municipal tools include speed humps, curb extensions, raised crosswalks, mini-roundabouts, and changes to signage and line markings. Placement usually targets residential streets near schools, parks, and high-pedestrian areas based on traffic studies and community requests.

Start with the city request process before funding cycles close.

School zone signs and speed limits

School zone signage and times in Burnaby are applied to protect children at arrival and dismissal times and typically align with local engineering standards and provincial vehicle rules. Exact posted speeds and times are set by the city in coordination with relevant provincial statutes where applicable.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of traffic calming compliance, illegal sign removal, or unauthorized road changes is managed by City of Burnaby bylaw and enforcement teams in coordination with Engineering and Public Works. Specific monetary fines for violating municipal traffic control devices or tampering with signage are not specified on the cited page; see the city contact for enforcement procedures and complaint submission. City of Burnaby traffic calming information[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: not specified on the cited page; city practice may include higher fines or court referral for repeat or continuing offences.
  • Non-monetary actions: orders to restore signage, removal of unauthorised alterations, or court action.
  • Enforcer: City of Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement and Engineering/Transportation departments; report via the city contact page cited above.
  • Appeals and review: not specified on the cited page; inquire with Bylaw Enforcement for timelines and appeal processes.
If a bylaw section or fine is needed for legal steps, request the specific bylaw number from the city contact.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes a traffic calming request process; a specific application form name or number and fees are not specified on the cited page. Contact the city engineering or transportation office to obtain current forms and submission instructions.

How decisions are made

  • Data collection: traffic counts and speed studies.
  • Prioritization: safety risk, pedestrian volumes, and proximity to schools.
  • Design and consultation: engineering review and public consultation.
  • Funding and scheduling: capital plan cycles.

Action steps for residents

  • Observe and record dates, times, and photos of speeding or unsafe crossings.
  • Submit a traffic calming request or service request to City of Burnaby Engineering.
  • Contact your school administration to coordinate crossing guards and parent awareness.
  • Follow up in writing and ask for the project priority and expected timeline.
Community petitions and safety studies strengthen requests.

FAQ

How do I request traffic calming near a school?
Report the concern to City of Burnaby Engineering or use the traffic calming request process; include location, times of concern, and any photos or counts.
Who sets school zone speed limits?
School zone signs and times are implemented by the city in coordination with provincial statutes and local engineering standards.
How long does a request take to be reviewed?
Timelines vary by workload and funding cycles; the city does not specify a single standard review time on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Document the problem with dates, times, and photos.
  2. Submit a traffic calming request to the City of Burnaby Engineering department.
  3. Request a traffic study or speed count if available.
  4. Follow up with Bylaw Enforcement for enforcement options or with Engineering for capital works scheduling.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with the city's traffic calming request process and provide clear evidence.
  • School zone signage is set by city practice aligned with provincial rules.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Burnaby - Traffic Calming and School Zones

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