The infraction or offense of speeding in a school zone is committed when the driver of a motor vehicle in a marked school zone exceeds the posted speed limit or exceeds the speed limit that is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances or conditions—conditions such as the road (straight, curved, wet, dry, icy, flat, hilly); the weather (clear, foggy, raining, snowing); the visibility; and the presence of children in a crosswalk, for example.

Laws regarding speeding in a school zone vary from state to state and among cities and towns and are usually located in a state’s statutes and sometimes in local ordinances enacted by cities or towns.

The penalty for speeding in a school zone is usually a fine and demerit points added to the driver’s license or driving record. But the fines and penalties for speeding in a school zone are usually much greater than for a typical speeding ticket or citation.

In Utah, the offense of speeding in a school zone is taken very seriously due to the heightened risk to children. The specific regulations and penalties are outlined in Utah's traffic code. Drivers are expected to adhere to the posted speed limits, which are often reduced in school zones during certain times of the day when children are likely to be present, such as when school is starting or ending. The fines for speeding in a school zone in Utah are typically higher than for other speeding offenses. Additionally, drivers may receive demerit points on their driving record, which can affect insurance rates and driving privileges. The exact penalty can vary depending on the driver's speed relative to the speed limit, and the presence of children. It's important for drivers to be aware of and comply with the specific speed limits and traffic laws in school zones to ensure the safety of children and to avoid the increased penalties associated with these infractions.