Eden Prairie schools are back in session next week! As a refresher, the EPPD would like to remind drivers of the importance of stopping for school bus stop arms.

The law requires that drivers in both directions stop at least 20 feet away when they see a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended. The fine for failing to stop is $500.

It is important to note that school bus drivers can report these violations directly to the Police Department. The registered owner of the violator vehicle can receive a ticket in the mail – even if they were not driving the vehicle at the time of the offense. In addition, some Eden Prairie school buses are equipped with video cameras that have successfully recorded violations.

The only time it is okay to pass a bus with flashing lights is if you’re going the opposite direction on a divided roadway (a roadway with an unpaved space or raised median/physical barrier — see diagram).

In 2024 there were 106 reported violations and to date in 2025 there have been 58. To help prevent this number from increasing, this September the EPPD will conduct extra proactive stop arm patrols throughout the City.

Please help keep our students safe by stopping for the stop arm.