Councilors Pass New Cell Phone Ordinance Restricting Use in School and Construction Zones

On Wednesday, December 10, Tulsa City Councilors unanimously approved a new ordinance prohibiting holding or using a hand-held communication device or cell phone in a school or construction zone.

The ordinance states the following: 

• Prohibits texting or holding a hand-held cell phone while operating a motor vehicle in a marked school or construction zone.  

• Not including hands-free or voice-operated devices or systems integrated into a vehicle. 

• Allows provisions for acceptable cell phone use near a school or construction zone in emergency situations, such as calling 911. 

• Prevents law enforcement from confiscating a cellular device without the person’s permission.  

• Establishes a fine of no more than $100 for those in violation.  

The ordinance was passed with the emergency clause and will go into effect after it is signed by the Mayor. This update ensures alignment with a new Oklahoma state law (HB 2263), which went into effect on November 1, and allows for local enforcement. 

Read the full ordinance here.