Request School Crossing Guard or Speed Reduction - Long Beach

Public Safety California 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

In Long Beach, California, residents, schools, or parents can request a school crossing guard or a traffic speed reduction near schools and residential streets. This guide explains which city departments manage requests, what information to provide, likely steps and timelines, and how enforcement and appeals work under city traffic rules. Use the official municipal code and department pages to verify rules and submit requests.

Who handles requests

The City of Long Beach assigns roles for traffic safety: Traffic Engineering (Public Works/Transportation) evaluates speed reduction and traffic calming requests; the Police Department (Traffic Division) coordinates crossing guard needs and enforcement. Legal authority for local traffic regulations is in the municipal code; see the official code link below for controlling provisions: Long Beach Municipal Code: Title 10 - Vehicles & Traffic[1].

Start by documenting vehicle speeds, crossing volumes, and incident history at the location.

How to request a crossing guard or speed reduction

Requests usually begin with an online complaint or application to Traffic Engineering or the Police Traffic Division. Typical steps are:

  1. Gather site details: address, nearest school, peak hours, photos and any collision history.
  2. Contact the Police Traffic Division or Traffic Engineering to report concerns and ask about an evaluation.
  3. Traffic staff may perform a field review or a formal traffic study to collect speed and volume data.
  4. If findings meet criteria, city staff will schedule actions such as installing signage, crosswalks, speed humps, or recommending a crossing guard.

Applications & Forms

The city publishes specific request forms or online reporting tools on department pages when available. If no official form is required or none is published, the department accepts emailed requests or online service requests; specific form names or numbers are not specified on the cited page.[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Traffic rules affecting speed limits, crossing conduct, and parking in school zones are enforced by the Long Beach Police Department and Traffic Enforcement officers, often in coordination with Traffic Engineering for engineering remedies. The municipal code and state Vehicle Code govern violations and penalties; specific fine amounts and escalation schedules are not specified on the cited municipal-code page.[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation (repeat or continuing offences): not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to comply, court actions, or civil citations may apply; specific measures are not detailed on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: Long Beach Police Department, Traffic Division; complaints routed through police or Traffic Engineering contact pages.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited municipal-code page; contact the enforcing department for appeal procedures.
If you receive a citation, follow the notice for the listed appeal or payment deadline immediately.

Common violations

  • Speeding in school zones during restricted hours.
  • Failure to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks.
  • Illegal stopping or parking that obscures crossings or bus stops.

Action steps

  • Document location, timeframes, photos, and any collision reports.
  • File an online service request or contact Traffic Engineering or the Police Traffic Division to initiate an evaluation.
  • Submit any required forms or school letters supporting a crossing guard or traffic-calming measure.
  • Follow up after the city’s stated review period; request status updates if you do not receive a response.

FAQ

Who can request a crossing guard?
Parents, school officials, or residents can request a crossing guard by contacting the Police Traffic Division or Traffic Engineering; requirements vary by location.
How long does a traffic study take?
Timing depends on staff workload and data needs; the city will provide an estimated schedule after an initial request.
Is there a guaranteed crossing guard if a school requests one?
No guarantee; the city evaluates need against criteria and resources before assigning a crossing guard.

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: location, school name, photos, and any collision reports.
  2. Contact Long Beach Traffic Engineering or the Police Traffic Division with the details and request an evaluation.
  3. If requested, complete any city forms or provide a school letter supporting the need for a guard or traffic-calming measure.
  4. Await the city field review or traffic study and follow up for status and recommended actions.
  5. If denied, ask the department for reasons and appeal or resubmit with additional supporting evidence.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with clear documentation and a direct request to the appropriate city department.
  • Expect a review or traffic study; timelines vary by workload and data needs.
  • Contact the Police Traffic Division for enforcement issues and Traffic Engineering for engineering solutions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Long Beach Municipal Code - Title 10: Vehicles & Traffic

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