Watertown City Council to Consider Speed Limit Overhaul, 25 MPH Citywide Maximum, Except Where Otherwise Posted
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Watertown City Council will consider an overhaul of the city's speed limit regulations during a first reading of Ordinance No. 26-36 at its regular meeting on Monday, Oct. 5, 2026.
According to a memo from Police Chief Tim Toomey, the proposed ordinance amendments are designed to "simplify and modernize the City's speed regulations."
Currently, the city's traffic ordinance identifies specific roadways and roadway segments, requiring the city council to formally amend the ordinance whenever conditions or appropriate speed limits change in those areas.
The proposed revisions will repeal Section 19.0115 in its entirety and establish general speed requirements, allowing roadway-specific speed limits to be set through appropriate signage based on roadway conditions and public safety.
If approved, the new ordinance would establish the following general speed limits within Watertown:
· Maximum Speed: 25 mph (except where a different speed limit is established and posted).
· School Zones: 15 mph (during applicable days or times).
· Alleys: 15 mph.
· Obstructed Intersections & Railway Crossings: 15 mph when approaching within 50 feet of a grade crossing or uncontrolled intersection where the driver's view is obstructed.
The ordinance also includes a "Reasonable and Prudent Speed" clause, which states that drivers must not operate a vehicle faster than is reasonable under existing conditions and must reduce speed to respond safely to traffic, weather, visibility, or other hazards.
Emergency vehicles responding to calls are exempt from the speed limitations.
The amendments will also update Section 19.0501 regarding the authority to install traffic control devices to reflect the city's current organizational structure. The revision will shift that authority from the Public Works Director to the City Manager, who will consult with the Police Chief, Street Superintendent, and City Engineer.
Because Monday's agenda item is a first reading, the council will not take action on the ordinance.
