A School Speed Limit sign or assembly is required at all school zones to indicate the 20 mile per hour school zone speed limit. Oftentimes, flashers are a part of the sign assembly to draw attention to the sign and to designate when the school speed limit is in effect.  However, it should be noted that flashers are not required.  Above are a few examples of different types of school speed limit signs and assemblies. 

Section 702-6 of the Traffic Engineering Manual (available online at www.dot.state.oh.us, under Design Reference Resource Center) spells out the responsibilities of the ODOT District and the School for school flashers.  A brief overview of these responsibilities is as follows:

The District will bear the cost and determine where school zone flashers are justified; develop the installation plans; furnish, install and maintain materials within highway right-of-way; program and operate timers located in highway right-of-way; and remove flashers when District determines they are no longer justified.

The School will bear the cost and furnish, install and maintain materials on school property; furnish the electricity; determine appropriate times of operation; obtain concurrence with District on times of operation; and program and operate timers located on school’s property.

Flashers may also be installed for school crosswalks that are outside of the typical school zone but meet the distance requirements as set out in the Ohio Revised Code.