# COMAR Title 13A — State Board of Education

## Subtitle 06 — Supporting Programs

### Chapter 07 — Student Transportation

#### Regulation .15 School Vehicle Loading Zones.

*COMAR 13A.06.07.15*

A. Loading zones shall be approved by the local superintendent of schools, the Maryland State Police, or the local police department, in cooperation with the State Highway Administration.

B. Types of Loading Zones.

  (1) On-Roadway Loading Zones.

    (a) The location of the loading zone shall be on the travel portion of the roadway.

    (b) The eight-light safety system shall be used during the execution of on-roadway loading.

  (2) On-Highway Loading Zones.

    (a) The loading zone shall be at least 81/2 feet wide and located completely off the roadway. It may be paved, but pavement is not required.

    (b) The loading zone shall have a student waiting area adequate to accommodate the number of students involved.

    (c) The loading zone may be near or at an intersection if the volume of traffic from the secondary street or road is low enough to warrant this location.

    (d) Sight distance at the loading zone shall be adequate for safe ingress and egress.

    (e) The eight-light safety system may not be used during the execution of on-highway loading.

  (3) Off Highway Loading Zones.

    (a) The location of the loading zone may not require the bus to back.

    (b) Sight distance at the loading zone shall be adequate for safe ingress and egress.

    (c) The loading zone may not be susceptible to blockage by parked vehicles.

    (d) The eight-light safety system may not be used during the execution of off-highway loading.

  (4) Only turn signals shall be used for on-highway and off-highway loading for safe ingress and egress. The eight-light safety system may not be used.