The Owen Sound Police Service is increasing traffic enforcement in school zones across the city as warmer spring weather leads to more children walking and biking to school. The initiative aims to improve safety following concerns raised by local school administrators, with officers focusing on reducing speeding, aggressive driving, and distracted driving.
The city has designated school zones at several locations, including Alexandra Community School, École Catholique Saint-Dominique-Savio, Hillcrest Elementary School, Keppel-Sarawak Elementary School, Notre Dame Catholic School, Saint Basil Catholic Elementary School, and Timothy Christian School. At these locations, speed limits are set to 30 km/h on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the school year.
Drivers are reminded that traffic fines are significantly higher within these zones, with some penalties reaching up to 60% more than those on regular roads.
Beyond speed limits, police are reminding the public of other legal obligations to protect students. Failing to stop for a crossing guard displaying a portable stop sign carries a $180 fine and three demerit points, while passing a school bus with red lights activated results in a $490 fine. Failing to yield for pedestrians at a crosswalk can also lead to a $150 fine and three demerit points.
This enhanced enforcement is supported by over $647,000 in funding provided by the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The grant assists the police service in hiring part-time officers to help with traffic enforcement and calls during busy periods of the day.
