Areas where children and pedestrians are most common have special speed rules designed around their vulnerability and unpredictability.
30 km/h Zones
Many Swedish municipalities have introduced 30 km/h zones in residential streets, near schools, and in pedestrian-heavy areas. These zones are entered at a sign showing “30” and exit at an “end of 30 zone” sign. Within the zone, the limit applies on all roads unless a higher or lower limit is specifically posted on an individual road.
School Areas
Near schools, lower limits and additional warning signs (children crossing, school warning triangle) require extra caution at all times — not just during school hours. Children may be present early, at lunch, after school, and during breaks. Maintain a speed from which you can stop within your field of vision.
Residential Streets (Gågata/Gårdsgata)
A “residential street” (gårdsgata) sign means pedestrians have full priority over the entire road surface. Vehicle speed must not exceed walking pace — approximately 7 km/h. Pedestrians do not need to use any special area; they may walk anywhere on the street. Drivers must give way to all pedestrians.
Exam tip: In a 30 km/h zone, the limit applies to all roads in the zone without individual signs. A residential street (gårdsgata) has a different sign and a 7 km/h walking-pace limit — lower than a 30 zone.