Tempe Speed Limits and Traffic Calming Rules
This guide explains how Tempe, Arizona regulates speed limits and neighborhood traffic calming. It summarizes local ordinances, the City traffic‑calming request process, enforcement responsibilities, and practical steps drivers and residents can take to request changes, appeal citations, or report hazardous conditions. Where official sections or amounts are not clearly published on municipal pages, the entry notes "not specified on the cited page" and points to the City of Tempe code and program pages for the controlling documents. Use the links and contacts below to submit requests, view the municipal code, or contact enforcement agencies.
How Tempe sets speed limits
Speed limits in Tempe reflect street classification, engineering studies, and Arizona law; the City follows procedures set out in local ordinances and engineering standards. For the controlling municipal code and ordinance text, see the City code and local transportation program pages[1][2].
Traffic-calming programs and measures
Neighborhood traffic calming tools used by Tempe typically include speed humps, diverters, curb extensions, radar feedback signs, and pavement markings. Requests are evaluated through the City's neighborhood traffic management or transportation program; project selection is based on criteria such as traffic speed, volume, pedestrian activity, and equity. For program details and the request form, consult the City traffic-calming pages and published request materials[2].
Common measures
- Speed humps and cushions for neighborhood streets.
- Traffic diverters and curb extensions to reduce through traffic.
- Radar speed feedback signs to improve driver compliance.
- Pavement markings, crosswalks, and signage upgrades for pedestrian safety.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement of speed limits and moving violations in Tempe is performed by the Tempe Police Department; civil and criminal penalties are governed by the municipal code and Arizona law. Where specific fine amounts or escalation rules are not published on the municipal pages cited below, this guide notes that the amount is "not specified on the cited page" and directs readers to the official ordinance text[1].
- Monetary fines: specific dollar amounts for most moving violations - not specified on the cited municipal-code page; see the municipal code and traffic enforcement pages[1].
- Escalation: first and repeat offence procedures and any increasing penalties - not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: court appearances, orders to correct unsafe conditions, or vehicle impoundment may apply under certain statutes - specific sanctions not fully detailed on the cited municipal pages.
- Enforcer: Tempe Police Department handles moving violations; Traffic Engineering implements calming projects and posts traffic-control devices[3].
- Appeals and review: citation contest procedures and court appeal rights follow the citation instructions and Arizona court rules; exact time limits for filing a contest or appeal are not specified on the cited municipal-code page and should be checked on the citation or municipal court information.
Common violations and typical handling:
- Exceeding posted speed limit — usually enforceable by citation and fine.
- Failing to obey traffic-control devices — citations and corrective orders.
- Unsafe parking or blocking crosswalks — parking enforcement and possible towing.
Applications & Forms
The City publishes a neighborhood traffic-calming request form and program materials for residents to request studies or projects; specific form numbers, fees, and submission deadlines are not specified on the cited program page and should be confirmed on the City site or by contacting the Transportation Division[2]. If no form is required, the program page will state submission steps.
Action steps for drivers and residents
- To request traffic calming: complete the neighborhood traffic-calming request form on the City website and follow any survey or petition instructions[2].
- To report hazardous drivers or crashes: contact Tempe Police non-emergency or call 911 for emergencies; use the Police Department traffic-safety contact page for non-emergency guidance[3].
- If you receive a citation: read the citation for contest/payment instructions and deadlines; contact the municipal court shown on the ticket for appeals.
FAQ
- How are Tempe speed limits determined?
- City staff use road classification, engineering studies, and state guidance; local ordinances set authority. See the municipal code and transportation program pages for details.[1][2]
- How do I request traffic calming on my street?
- Submit the neighborhood traffic-calming request form on the City website and follow instructions for resident support and data collection[2].
- Who enforces speed limits in Tempe?
- The Tempe Police Department enforces moving violations; Traffic Engineering installs calming measures and signage[3].
How-To
- Identify the specific location and collect any witness statements or photos.
- Download and complete the neighborhood traffic-calming request form from the City website[2].
- Submit the form and any required supporting materials as instructed on the program page.
- Participate in any requested traffic counts or neighborhood meetings held by the City.
- If selected, coordinate with Traffic Engineering on design, schedule, and construction.
- Follow up with the City contact if you need status updates or want to appeal a decision.
Key Takeaways
- Tempe sets speed limits by engineering standards and enforces them through the Police Department.
- Residents can request traffic-calming via the City program and request form.
- Specific fine amounts and some escalation details are not specified on the cited municipal pages; consult the municipal code and the citation for exact figures.
Help and Support / Resources
- City of Tempe Transportation Division
- City of Tempe Municipal Code (Municode)
- Tempe Police Department - Traffic Safety
- City Council & Ordinance Records