Installing Speed Bumps and Roundabouts - Saguenay Bylaws

Transportation Quebec 3 Minutes Read · published May 26, 2026 Flag of Quebec

Saguenay, Quebec residents often seek speed bumps or roundabouts to calm traffic on local streets; these installations are governed by municipal bylaws and public-works processes[1]. This guide explains typical steps, who enforces rules, likely timelines, and how to apply or appeal decisions so neighbourhood groups and councillors can prepare a compliant request.

Overview of the process

The city evaluates traffic-calming requests based on safety studies, traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, proximity to schools and vulnerable users, and consultation with the relevant borough and Road Works or Transportation service. Local councillors or neighbourhood associations often begin the request by contacting the city and submitting evidence of the problem. Expect an initial site assessment and possibly a technical study ordered by the city.

Early coordination with your borough councillor speeds review.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal bylaw and the city services responsible set enforcement and sanctions for unauthorized road modifications and noncompliant installations; specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited page[1]. Enforcement is normally handled by By-law Enforcement together with the Service des travaux publics or Transportation/Traffic unit, which investigate illegal or unsafe installations[2].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary orders: removal orders or remediation required by the city are typically available remedies; specific orders are not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and Service des travaux publics / Transportation (complaint and inspection pathways below)[2].
  • Appeals/review: procedural appeals or requests for review follow the administrative or council procedures in municipal regulation; exact time limits are not specified on the cited page.
Do not install speed-calming devices without city approval; removal and fines may follow.

Applications & Forms

There is no single publicly posted, named form for private requests to install speed bumps or roundabouts on the cited municipal pages; requests are normally submitted to the Service des travaux publics or the borough office for assessment[1]. Fees, if any, and formal application numbers are not specified on the cited page.

Typical steps the city follows

  • Request intake: resident, councillor or association files a request with the borough or Service des travaux publics.
  • Site assessment: city conducts traffic counts and safety review.
  • Technical study: if needed, the city commissions an engineering study to test options (speed humps, roundabout, signage).
  • Public consultation: the city may notify residents or hold a consultation meeting.
  • Decision and works: council or delegated official approves, schedules construction, and issues a work order to the road crews.

How decisions are made

Decisions weigh safety, traffic engineering standards, emergency vehicle access, winter maintenance, and neighbourhood support. Roundabouts require more space and design work than speed humps; the city may prefer one solution over another based on the technical study and operational impact.

Roundabouts usually need more property width and drainage planning than speed humps.

FAQ

Who can request a speed bump or roundabout?
Residents, neighbourhood associations or councillors can request an assessment from the borough or Service des travaux publics.
How long does the review take?
Timelines vary by workload and whether a study is needed; not specified on the cited page.
Are there costs for residents?
Costs and fees for requests or for private installations are not specified on the cited page.

How-To

  1. Document the problem: collect photos, speed measurements and dates/times of incidents.
  2. Contact your borough councillor and the Service des travaux publics to request assessment[2].
  3. Submit any written petition or evidence the city requests; follow the city's instructions for supplemental materials.
  4. Participate in any public consultation and respond to information requests during the technical study phase.
  5. If approved, coordinate timing with the city for installation and confirm maintenance responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with documentation and your borough councillor to begin the process.
  • The city evaluates safety, access, and maintenance before approving any device.
  • Unauthorized installations risk removal orders and fines; check with Service des travaux publics first.

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