Key:maxspeed:variable
 maxspeed:variable
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| Description |
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Indication that the speed of a way is not static (e.g. fixed signs) but dynamic (e.g. variable-message sign) 
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| Group: restrictions |
| Used on these elements |
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| Useful combination |
| See also |
Status: approved
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| Tools for this tag |
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The tag maxspeed:variable=* is added to a highway=*, railway=* or waterway=* feature as an indication that the speed limit is not static (e.g. fixed signs) but dynamic (e.g. variable-message sign)
This maxspeed:variable=* tag indicates that a lower speed limit may be in operation in certain non-time based conditions, but does not specify the speed directly. Where that lower speed limit has a fixed value it suggested to tag it with maxspeed:conditional=<lower_speed> @ <condition>, where `<lower_speed>` is the lower speed limit value e.g. 40, and `<condition>` is the condition that triggers it, e.g. `wet` or `flashing` (flashing lights), etc.
If the speed limit is known for when the dynamic signs are not in operation, this should be tagged in maxspeed=*.
Tagging
| key/value | Description |
|---|---|
| maxspeed:variable=yes | Indicates that the speed specified in maxspeed=* tagging represents a maximum speed limit and can be further reduced using dynamic speed indication. This replaces |
| maxspeed:variable=<reasons> | Same meaning as above, but additionaly specifies one or more ";"-separated reasons for speed adjustment. See next section for possible values. |
| maxspeed:variable=no | Default. Indicates that the speed specified in maxspeed=* tagging is a fixed limit. Fixed limits can still vary depend on conditions, e.g. time of day. |
| maxspeed:variable:forward=* maxspeed:variable:backward=* |
Same meaning as above, however, these tags affect forward/backward direction only. If present, overrides maxspeed:variable=* |
Values for <reason>
The value can provide additional information, why the speed limit is changed in the variable speed limit section. They should be observable by people frequently using the section with the variable speed limit. If the reason is not known, please use yes.
The values imply a hint about the frequency of a speed limit changes.
maxspeed:variable value
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Description | Example |
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peak_traffic
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The speed limit is frequently lowered (from the given maxspeed) on high traffic loads during peak hours on many days of the year. Traffic management systems reduce the speed limit to optimize traffic thoughput by harmonizing the speed of the vehicles, to reduce the inflow traffic into a congested section and also for safety reasons to lower the speed before queues.
The value Note: This value is not intended for sections with occasional traffic peaks (e.g. start of holidays, an annual concert), even if the variable speed limits is reduced in such situations too. Use |
 Speed limit 40 because of dense traffic (rush hour) |
weather
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This value indicates that the speed limit changes with the weather conditions. Most modern traffic management systems have sensors to detect wet road conditions, snow/ice or fog. The information can be used to reduce speed for increased safety.
Note: Only use |
 Illustration only, variable speed limit not visible on this picture. |
environment
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The speed limit can be reduced to protect the environment and/or nearby residents (e.g. to reduce emissions, smog or noise).
Note: This value (and |
 Variable speed limit of 100, activated to reduce emissions (indicated by IG-L) |
school_zone
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A lower speed limit is indicated due to children in nearby schools.
Note: This is not a generic tag for school zones (see hazard=school_zone). It only applies to school zones where the lower speed limit is changed or indicated externally (for example by switching on flashing lights or changing a digital display) and not just with static signs. For static signs with written conditions like "when children are present", "on school days" or fixed times or days (Mo-Fr, 8-16), please use maxspeed:conditional=* and do not tag it with |
Note that this would be better tagged with |
obstruction
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The speed limit is lowered exceptionally in cases like accidents or breakdowns, on occasional traffic peaks (few days of year only, for example start or end of school holidays), road works or other traffic obstructions ahead.
Note: Variable speed limits in tunnels and at tunnel portals outside urban areas are candidates for |
 Here the tunnel has been completely closed due a car break down ("Panne"), the reduced variable speed limit would be 30. |
border_control
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The speed limit is lowered when border police/customs authorities are stopping vehicles for border checks (e.g. diverting traffic towards a  barrier=border_control).
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 Speed limit reduced to 70 km/h because of border checks ("70 Controle"). The electronic signs here are also capable of displaying "90". |
Examples
- maxspeed:variable=yes, maxspeed=80 – indicates that the maximum allowed speed is 80 kmph, however, this speed limit can be reduced further to accomodate traffic conditions
- maxspeed:variable=yes, maxspeed=none – indicates that there is no maximum allowed speed (no legal limit!), however, the speed limit can be reduced if necessary. Normally only useful on German Autobahn.
Possible tagging mistakes
See also
- maxspeed=* - Specifies the maximum legal speed limit on a road, railway or waterway
- maxspeed:conditional=* - Specifies a conditional maximum legal speed limit on a road, railway or waterway, which only applies under certain circumstances