Local authorities can initiate action to modify a speed limit and create a new regulatory speed zone on a local road through an engineering and traffic investigation. Local officials have a key role in setting limits. They must balance the competing concerns and opinions of drivers, residents and law enforcement agencies with statutory requirements and traffic safety. Any change must be supported by an engineering and traffic investigation adhering to the Wisconsin state statutes. This should be conducted by a professional engineer with appropriate traffic engineering expertise through the application of procedures and criteria established by an engineer (e.g.,
Wisconsin's speed limit guidance).
WisDOT recommends that local authorities coordinate with WisDOT prior to completing an engineering and traffic investigation to verify study requirements and approval authorities. For questions, please reach out to the appropriate
contact.
When changes to the local roadway system require WisDOT coordination and approval, follow the steps below:
- Local authority (e.g., town/village/city government official) receives request from citizen or another constituent.
- Local authority determines if an engineering and traffic investigation (i.e., engineering study) is appropriate for the location or if other changes are needed.
- Local authority prepares engineering study based on
guidance provided by WisDOT.
- Local authority submits written request to WisDOT. Request should include reasoning for why the location is being investigated and provide a copy of the engineering study.
- WisDOT reviews the results and makes a determination for potential changes.
- If approved by WisDOT, modified speed limit is posted by local roadway employees.