Request Speed Humps - New York City Bylaw Process

Transportation New York 3 Minutes Read · published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York · By Emily Carter

In New York City, New York, residents and local groups can request speed humps and other traffic calming measures through NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) processes. This guide explains how requests are evaluated, who enforces rules, what forms or 311 services to use, typical timelines, and practical steps to propose speed humps, curb extensions, or other calming tools.

Start with a 311 request and local outreach to your community board.

Overview of the request process

Requests for speed humps and traffic calming are evaluated by NYC DOT engineering staff and typically begin with a service request submitted to 311 or via DOT guidance pages. DOT reviews site conditions, traffic volumes, collision history, and emergency access before deciding on installation. For official program details and technical criteria, consult the NYC DOT traffic calming and speed hump information pages NYC DOT Traffic Calming[1] and NYC DOT Speed Humps[2]. To submit requests, use NYC 311 online or by phone 311 Service - Speed Hump Request[3].

Penalties & Enforcement

DOT authorizes, installs, and maintains official traffic calming devices. Enforcement of vehicle speeding and traffic violations remains an NYPD function; tampering with official traffic devices is subject to municipal enforcement. Specific fine amounts, escalation schedules, and time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited DOT pages and must be confirmed on the controlling enforcement or municipal code pages.

  • Enforcer: NYC Department of Transportation for installation and maintenance; NYPD for moving violations and speed enforcement.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: submit a 311 request or contact DOT Traffic Operations (see Help and Support / Resources below).
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited DOT pages.
  • Appeals/review: not specified on the cited DOT pages; request review through DOT channels or 311.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: removal orders for unauthorized devices, restoration orders, or court actions if statutory violations are found (specific remedies not specified on cited pages).
DOT and NYPD roles differ: DOT handles devices, NYPD enforces moving violations.

Applications & Forms

The primary submission mechanism for individual requests is NYC 311; DOT provides program pages describing criteria and process but does not publish a separate downloadable 'speed hump application' form on the cited pages. For submitting a request, use the 311 service linked above 311 Service - Speed Hump Request[3].

How requests are evaluated

DOT evaluation typically includes site visits, traffic counts, collision history, bus and emergency routes review, and neighborhood context. Community Board input and outreach to local stakeholders often factor into prioritization. DOT may pilot temporary measures before permanent installation.

  • Typical review elements: traffic counts, crash data, emergency access checks.
  • Community input: outreach and community board review may be required or recommended.
  • Installation: permanent vs pilot installations depend on field results and agency approval.
Community support and documented safety issues strengthen requests.

Action steps

  1. Submit a 311 request describing location, problems, and any collision history; include photos if available.
  2. Notify your Community Board and local elected officials to document neighborhood support.
  3. Track DOT response and attend site visits or public meetings as requested.
  4. If approved, DOT will schedule installation or a pilot; monitor impact and report follow-up issues to 311.

FAQ

How do I request a speed hump in New York City?
Start by submitting a detailed service request through NYC 311 and consult NYC DOT traffic calming guidance. DOT will evaluate site conditions and safety data.
How long does the review take?
Timeframes vary by workload and evaluation requirements; specific timelines are not specified on the cited DOT pages.
Who decides whether a speed hump is installed?
NYC DOT engineering staff make the decision after evaluation; community input and emergency access reviews are considered.
Can I install my own speed hump?
No. Installing or altering traffic control devices without DOT authorization is not permitted and may be subject to enforcement actions; specific penalties are not specified on the cited DOT pages.

How-To

Steps to request and follow through on a speed hump or traffic calming measure:

  1. Prepare: document location, photos, times of concern, and any collision data.
  2. Submit a 311 request with details and request DOT review.
  3. Engage the Community Board to gather neighborhood support and participate in any DOT outreach.
  4. Attend DOT site visit or public meeting and provide feedback during any pilot phase.
  5. If approved, follow DOT instructions for installation timing and post-installation monitoring; report any maintenance needs via 311.

Key Takeaways

  • Begin with a 311 request and DOT program guidance.
  • DOT evaluates safety data and emergency access before approval.
  • Community Board outreach and local support help the case.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] NYC DOT Traffic Calming
  2. [2] NYC DOT Speed Humps
  3. [3] 311 Service - Speed Hump Request

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Emily Carter

Emily Carter

Municipal Policy Researcher

Emily researches municipal codes and local ordinances across the United States. She verifies every guide against official city and state sources before publication.