MVA Reform Recommendation: Default 30 km/h for Local Streets

Safe Neighbourhoods, Safe Streets

British Columbia’s Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) currently sets the default speed limit for all roads, including residential neighbourhood streets, at 50 km/h unless otherwise posted. This outdated default speed presents a serious, systemic barrier to improving safety for the most vulnerable users of our transportation system, including children, seniors, people walking, cycling, and using mobility aids like wheelchairs or scooters.

At 50 km/h, the risk of death or serious injury in the event of a collision is significantly elevated. A person struck at this speed is approximately five times more likely to be killed compared to a collision at 30 km/h. Numerous public health agencies, including the World Health Organization and BC’s own Provincial Health Officer, recommend 30 km/h as the appropriate default for neighbourhood streets to protect lives and reduce the burden of injury on our healthcare system.

This policy gap puts lives at risk, undermines BC’s transportation and climate goals, and disproportionately affects marginalized populations. Seniors make up nearly half of pedestrian fatalities in Vancouver, and low-income and racialized communities often live in areas with fewer safety features and higher traffic volumes. Unsafe speeds discourage people from choosing active transportation modes, walking, cycling, rolling, making it harder to reduce emissions, promote public health, and foster livable, connected communities.

HUB Cycling recommends a Safe Speeds Law requiring all vehicles to travel at a maximum 30 km/h on neighbourhood streets (streets without a centre line) as the default speed limit.

Exceptions would be signed on each block. Surveys show strong public support for this measure, including 94% of respondents in a 2013 Canadian Automobile Association survey who reported speeding on residential streets as a serious threat to personal safety.

Lack of Provincial Direction Creates Inconsistent and Delayed Action

Municipalities across BC face significant barriers when attempting to implement safer speed limits under the current Motor Vehicle Act. Many councils hesitate to move forward without clear provincial direction, fearing inconsistency or future misalignment with Ministry of Transportation regulations.

This cautious approach highlights a major flaw: the absence of a consistent, province-wide framework for safe neighbourhood speeds. Without a provincial Safe Speeds Law, municipalities must duplicate work or postpone action, leaving residents at preventable risk.

Increased Risk of Injury and Death

A person struck by a vehicle at 50 km/h is about five times more likely to be killed than at 30 km/h. Lower speeds reduce both the number and severity of crashes, and shorter stopping distances prevent collisions.

Reduced Safety for Vulnerable Road Users

Children, seniors, people walking, cycling, and using mobility aids are disproportionately affected by higher vehicle speeds. Residential streets remain hostile or inaccessible to these users without lower limits.

Inhibited Livability and Community Well-being

High-speed traffic discourages walking, cycling, outdoor play, and social interaction, while increasing noise, pollution, and stress. Slower streets improve community health and vibrancy.

Barrier to Climate and Transportation Goals

Higher speeds discourage active transportation, increasing car reliance and emissions. Slower streets support BC’s climate and transportation goals.

Global and Canadian Examples

• Toronto: 30 km/h neighborhood limits led to a 67% decrease in injuries.
• Europe: 30 km/h zones saw 23–38% reductions in crashes, fatalities, and injuries.
• New York, Portland, Calgary, Edmonton, London: lower speeds reduced crashes and injuries, with environmental benefits.
• BC municipalities: Vancouver, Saanich, Burnaby, Whistler, Bowen Island, Duncan, and Rossland adopted 30 km/h residential limits.
• Edmonton & Calgary: reduced default limits to 40 km/h on residential streets, part of Vision Zero initiatives.

Benefits

• Reduced fatalities and injuries among vulnerable road users.
• Increased mobility and accessibility for children, seniors, and people using mobility devices.
• Encouragement of walking and cycling, promoting healthier lifestyles.
• Economic benefits: lower healthcare costs and safer streets for low-income populations.
• Equity: consistent provincial implementation creates fairer access to safe streets.