Highway Patrol dismisses online claim of 24/7 school zone changes

BC Highway Patrol says online claims that school zones across Canada will switch to 24/7 enforcement on July 1 are false.

In a statement Thursday, officials confirmed there are no upcoming changes to school zone speed limits in B.C.

“School zones are a provincial jurisdiction. There are no sweeping changes coming for Canada,” Cpl. Michael McLaughlin said in the release.

Under Section 147 of the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act, drivers must observe 30 km/h speed limits in school zones between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on regular school days, or during the extended hours posted on official signage.

Officials say the rumour appears to be spreading through disreputable websites and social media posts amplified by artificial intelligence.

The agency advises the public to verify traffic law updates through official provincial sources such as ICBC or the Ministry of Transportation.