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1. Are speed bumps an effective way to slow traffic?

Speed bumps do not significantly reduce speed once the vehicle has left the speed bump. Speed bumps also present a potential hazard to vehicles including bicyclists, motorcyclists, emergency vehicles, and can jolt both vehicle and passengers. For these reasons the City of Hampton does not use speed bumps on public streets.

2. Can I get a "Children at Play" sign put up for in my neighborhood?

"Children at Play" signs tend to create a false sense of security for parents and children. The use of "Children at Play" and "Slow" signs have long been discouraged since these signs are a suggestion to small children that playing in, or beside, the roadway is okay. The City of Hampton does not install these types of signs on city streets.

3. Can I get a speed limit sign in my neighborhood or have an existing speed limit raised or lowered?

A widely held misconception is that speed limit signs slow traffic in neighborhoods. Most drivers drive at a speed they consider comfortable regardless of the posted speed limit. Traffic Engineering will look at each request on a case by case basis. To request a review please submit a service request or call 3-1-1.

4. Can I get a speed limit sign lower than 25 mph put up in my neighborhood?

No, the unposted speed limit in residential areas is automatically 25 mph. The city cannot post lower speed limit signs as such signs are considered a "speed trap," making enforcement illegal.

5. Can I have a "No Trucks" sign posted on my street?

The city will only install such signs in areas where there is a documented large volume of heavy truck traffic that does not have a legitimate reason to use the street. Installation is done only after an engineering study is done in the area.

6. Can stop signs be used to control speed in my neighborhood?

Stop signs are used to assign right-of-way at an intersection, not to control speed. If you believe speeding is an issue in your neighborhood, contact the Police Department at (757) 727-6111 for additional enforcement.

7. How can I get a sign for reserved parking for the handicapped installed?

The requests should be made by visiting the Department of Public Works Traffic Operations Division located at 550 N. Back River Rd. between the hours of 7 a.m. –  3:30 p.m. or by mail by completing the Handicap Parking Application form.

Applications can be mailed to you and must be renewed each year. The request must include:

• Documentation of a DMV handicap license plate or certificate
• A doctor's certification that the disability affects the applicant’s ability to walk a significant distance
• A certification as to the length of the disability if not permanent

8. Whom should I call to request a new sign or a sign repair?

Call the 3-1-1 Customer Call Center. If you are calling from the City of Hampton, simply dial 3-1-1 on your touch tone or rotary dial phone. From outside the City of Hampton, please dial (757) 727-8311. The call center is available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week to assist you.

9. Why are "Yield" signs installed versus "Stop" signs at some intersections?

If the sight distance is adequate, a less restrictive "Yield" sign can be installed safely. Overuse of "Stop" signs reduces their effectiveness.