CVC 22352: School Zone & Business District Speed Limits

Understanding CVC 22352

CVC 22352 establishes "prima facie" speed limits. These are speeds presumed to be safe and reasonable for specific areas unless conditions indicate otherwise. Unlike absolute speed limits (where any speed over the limit is automatically illegal), prima facie limits create a rebuttable presumption.

CVC 22352(a) - 15 MPH Zones

The 15 mph prima facie limit applies to:

• Any intersection where you cannot see approaching traffic for 100 feet in any direction
• Railroad crossings where you cannot see an approaching train for 400 feet
• Railroad crossings in business or residence districts
• Passing a streetcar or bus stopped for passengers
• Passing a school bus with red lights flashing
• Within a senior center or facility

CVC 22352(b) - 25 MPH Zones

The 25 mph prima facie limit applies to:

• Business districts
• Residence districts
• School zones when children are present
• Near any school grounds when children are going to or leaving school
• Near any playground or youth center

Defense Strategies for CVC 22352

The "prima facie" nature of these speed limits provides unique defense opportunities not available with absolute speed limits:

1. Challenge the Prima Facie Presumption

You can argue that your speed was actually safe and reasonable for the conditions at the time. This requires showing factors like:

• Good visibility and weather conditions
• No pedestrians or children present
• Light traffic conditions
• Your vehicle was under control at all times

2. Challenge Zone Designation

Question whether the area actually meets the legal definition of a school zone, business district, or other special zone:

• Were children actually present? (required for school zone)
• Was it during school hours?
• Is the area actually a "business district" under the law?
• Were proper signs posted?

3. Challenge Speed Measurement

Standard speed measurement challenges apply:

• Radar/LIDAR calibration records
• Officer training documentation
• Line of sight issues
• Traffic conditions affecting measurement

School Zone Specifics

School zone violations are particularly sensitive. Key things to know:

• Children must be present: The 25 mph limit only applies when children are actually present or during posted school hours
• Proper signage required: School zones must be marked with compliant signs indicating the reduced speed limit
• Time restrictions: Many school zones only enforce reduced speeds during specific hours (typically 7-8 AM and 2-4 PM on school days)
• Distance from school: The zone typically extends 500 to 1,000 feet from the school grounds

Penalties for CVC 22352 Violations

Note: The 2026 Judicial Council schedule sends CVC 22352 to the ordinary speed chart, so a school zone citation is not fined at a higher rate on its own. A separate enhancement applies under CVC 42009 when the offense happens in a highway construction or maintenance area during hours when work is being performed, and the totals then come from the enhanced speed chart: $363, $521 and $644.