Speed Reduction on Local Roads

In response to community concerns, the Town is considering reducing speed limits on local roads from 50km/h to 30km/h to improve safety for all road users, including drivers and people who walk, bike, or ride a scooter. The change would affect the roads marked in purple below, which are classified as ‘local’ in the Official Community Plan.

Public Engagement

To better understand community opinion on this topic, an online survey about speed limit reduction was open from October 3, 2025 to November 14, 2025.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts.

Staff are now compiling the feedback and will present all comments to Council this winter.

Some roads not included

Not all roads in Sidney are considered ‘local’.  Several roads are classified as arterial, collector, and provincial, and would not be affected by a speed reduction on local roads.

These roads are:

Ardwell Avenue
Beacon Avenue West
Canora Road *
Fifth Street **
Galaran Road
Mills Road/Mills Road West
McDonald Park Road *
Ocean Avenue**/ Ocean Ave West
Resthaven Drive (north of Mills Road)
Stirling Way
Weiler Avenue West

*shared road with District of North Saanich

** portions under Provincial jurisdiction

Council may consider changing speed limits on arterial and collector roads in the future.

Rationale for lower speed limits on local roads

Slower speeds contribute to quieter, more livable neighbourhoods and help reduce the number and impact of crashes. Slower drivers have more time to respond to sudden changes in their surroundings and respond to road conditions. According to Road Safety BC, a pedestrian hit at 30km an hour has a 90% chance of surviving, while pedestrian hit at 50km an hour has a 20% chance of surviving.

Several areas in Sidney already have 30 km/h speed limits including the downtown area, school zones, and the SHOAL Centre.

Speed limits are being reduced on locals roads in several neighbouring municipalities including the City of Victoria, and District of Saanich.