SELECTED TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM (STEP) – Speed Limits
In April, the Selected Traffic Enforcement Program will concentrate on speeding vehicles. Speed limits, road conditions, weather, traffic and the type of vehicle you drive all influence how fast you should travel.
Nearly one in four fatal collisions involved one or more drivers travelling at a speed too great for given conditions. Speeding also reduces the effectiveness of seatbelts and safety devices such as air bags.
Speed Limits
- The maximum speed permitted is 50 km/h unless otherwise posted.
- The speed limit in school zones is 30 km/h between the hours of 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. on any school day.
- The speed limit in a playground zone is 30 km/h between 7:30 a.m. and one hour after sunset.
- If the lights are flashing at a crosswalk, the maximum speed is 30 km/h, even if the pedestrian has cleared the crosswalk.
- Drivers must slow to 60 km/h, or less if the posted speed is lower, when passing emergency vehicles with their lights flashing. Fines for speeding in these areas are doubled.
- In construction zones, drivers must follow the posted speed limit. When workers are present, fines for speeding in these areas are doubled.
The fines for speeding are:
| Speed | Demerits | Fine Range |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - 15 km over | 2 points | $78 - $120 |
| 16 - 30 km over | 3 points | $140 - $239 |
| 31 - 50 km over | 4 points | $253 - $474 |
| more than 50 km over | 6 points | Mandatory Court - Fine determined by the Court. |
BYLAW ENFORCEMENT EDUCATION PROGRAM (BEEP) – Minimum Property Standards to Prevent Drainage Issues
Throughout the month of April, Enforcement Services will be focusing on preventing drainage issues by enforcing the minimum property standards.
Enforcement Services has received and responded to calls regarding drainage concerns since the spring melt began in March. Enforcement Services is looking to ensure:
- Sump pump hoses and downspout extensions are attached and directed away from you and your neighbour’s homes and towards public property, with the discharge point a minimum of 2 meters within the property line.
- Homeowners have ensured concrete swales and drainage easements are clear of debris that may restrict flow.
- Homeowners are not constructing raised garden beds or sheds over top of easements and surface drainage facilities.
To protect one’s property from future rainfall, the City further recommends:
- Testing your sump pump to ensure it is working properly.
- Assessing your lot grading to ensure water drains away from your foundation.
- Clearing snow and ice build-up in eaves troughs and at downspout ends.
- Moving remaining snow away from foundations and window wells.
City of Grande Prairie’s Minimum Property Standards By-law and Storm Drainage By-law provide the guidelines enforced by By-law Officers. Residents may call the City’s Enforcement Services at 780-830-5790 with any questions regarding by-law enforcement.