City Lowers Speed Limits In Rancho Santa Margarita: What To Know

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — The City of Rancho Santa Margarita is tightening speed limits in certain parts of the city, after officials voted to reduce speed limits in city school zones Wednesday.

Starting soon, Rancho Santa Margarita motorists traveling in school zones will be held to a 20 mile per hour speed limit, as opposed to the traditional 25 mile per hour speed limit in school zones.

The change takes advantage of a new authority given under California Assembly Bill 382, which allows cities to establish 20 mph school-zone speed limits ahead of a statewide requirement scheduled to take place in 2031.

City crews will replace existing signage in accordance with state requirements in the coming weeks, city staff said.

"Lower speeds give drivers more time to react and can help reduce collision severity, particularly in areas where students and families are walking, biking and crossing streets," the city said in a statement. "As new signs are installed, drivers are encouraged to watch for the change, slow down, and stay alert in and around our school zones."