California Work Zone Laws

How California handles work zones

California ties the enhancement to workers. The temporary orange limit bites when a crew is actually out and the signs stand, posted within 400 feet of each end of the zone (CVC 22362). With workers present, a speeding fine jumps a penalty category, or doubles for a misdemeanor (CVC 42009), and a judge can double it in a Safety Enhancement Zone (CVC 42010). No crew, no devices, and the normal limit applies. The statewide handheld ban still covers you. Obey the flagger (CVC 21367).

Speed, fines, phone, and the flagger

• Speed rule: The temporary orange limit is enforceable when workers are actually present and the signs are up, posted within 400 feet of each end of the zone (CVC 22362). No crew and no control devices out, and the original posted limit applies.
• Fine multiplier: One penalty category higher when workers are present, or doubled for a misdemeanor (CVC 42009); a judge can also double fines in a signed Safety Enhancement Zone (CVC 42010). No workers, no enhancement.
• Phone in a work zone: Restricted — put it down
• Flagger authority: Obey the person directing traffic. A flagger controls the zone under the road agency's authority (CVC 21367), and ignoring the signal draws the same enhanced penalties.
• Base fine: A speeding infraction's total bail runs about $238 to $490 with penalty assessments; CVC 42009 pushes it one penalty category higher when workers are present.

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