Virginia Beach Traffic Calming: Speed Bump & Roundabouts

Transportation Virginia 3 Minutes Read · published February 09, 2026 Flag of Virginia

In Virginia Beach, Virginia, residents and neighborhood groups can request review for traffic calming measures such as speed bumps (speed humps) or roundabouts to address safety and speeding concerns. This guide explains where to start, which city office evaluates requests, typical evaluation criteria, how enforcement and appeals work, and what forms or evidence you may need to submit. The city evaluates requests against engineering standards and neighborhood impacts; the process can include traffic counts, speed studies, public outreach, and capital-program scheduling.

How requests are evaluated

The Traffic Engineering section within the Department of Public Works manages traffic calming reviews. Typical steps include an initial eligibility check, traffic data collection, engineering analysis, and a public-notice or neighborhood meeting when a physical change is proposed. For details on the Traffic Calming program and application process see the city traffic page Traffic Calming program[1]. Decisions are based on safety, speed, roadway classification, emergency access, and cost.

  • Traffic counts and speed studies schedule.
  • Engineering analysis of sight distance and grade.
  • Public outreach and neighborhood concurrence where required.
  • Design review for drainage, utilities, and emergency vehicles.
Not all streets qualify; arterial roads and routes important to emergency services are often excluded.

Penalties & Enforcement

Traffic calming installations themselves are regulated by city engineering and public-works permitting; violations more commonly involve unauthorized alterations or removal of traffic control devices, or obstructing public streets. The Virginia Beach municipal code covers traffic control and street obstructions; specific penalty amounts and fine schedules are not specified on the cited code landing page Virginia Beach Code[2].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; see the city code or contact Traffic Engineering for current schedules.
  • Escalation: first/repeat/continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove unauthorized devices, restoration orders, and possible court action are enforceable by city authorities.
  • Enforcer: Department of Public Works - Traffic Engineering handles inspections and enforcement; complaints and reports can be submitted via the city contact pages listed below.

Appeals or requests for review of a traffic decision are handled through the department that issued the decision; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with Traffic Engineering when a decision is issued.

Applications & Forms

The Traffic Calming program page describes submitting a request and the typical workflow. The specific name of a form, filing fee, electronic submission address, or printable application is not specified on the cited program landing page; contact Traffic Engineering for the current Traffic Calming Request Form or procedure.Traffic Calming program[1]

Action steps

  • Document the concern: locations, dates, photos, and witness statements.
  • Contact Traffic Engineering to request a traffic-calming review and ask for the Traffic Calming Request Form.
  • Allow time for traffic counts and community outreach; projects may be scheduled into capital plans.
  • If approved, follow the city’s permit and construction process for installation.
Neighborhood petitions and clear documentation speed review and evaluation.

FAQ

How long does a review take?
Timelines vary by workload and whether studies are required; initial eligibility checks typically take weeks, while full studies and design can take months.
Can I install a speed bump myself?
No. Unauthorized installation of traffic control devices or pavement alterations on public streets is prohibited and subject to removal and enforcement.
Who pays for installation?
Costs vary; some capital projects are funded by the city while others may require neighborhood cost-sharing if the city policy permits. Confirm funding rules with Traffic Engineering.

How-To

  1. Call or email Traffic Engineering to discuss the issue and request the Traffic Calming Request Form.
  2. Gather evidence: photos, speed observations, and affected-address list or petition.
  3. Submit the completed request form and any attachments per the department instructions.
  4. Cooperate with studies and neighborhood outreach; attend meetings if requested.
  5. If approved, follow permit requirements and payment instructions for installation.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with Traffic Engineering for an official review request.
  • Strong documentation and neighborhood support improve chances of approval.
  • Timelines and fees vary; confirm current procedures with the department.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Virginia Beach Traffic Calming program
  2. [2] Virginia Beach Code of Ordinances

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