Can drivers get a speeding ticket in Sarasota school zones when the lights aren’t flashing?

Although motorists can get a ticket without the flashing signs, the speed limit being enforced depends on the time of day.

When lights are flashing in a school zone in the city of Sarasota, a special speed limit –– usually 15 or 20 miles per hour –– is in effect. If drivers speed more than 10 mph over that limit, they’ll be automatically ticketed a $100 fine by speed-tracking cameras. 

Once the lights stop flashing, drivers aren’t required to go the special school zone speed but still must follow the regular posted speed limit. If drivers speed 10 mph over that regular limit during school hours, they’ll still be ticketed by the cameras.

The cameras activate 30 minutes before school starts and deactivate 30 minutes after school ends. They also aren’t active on weekends or holidays.