English councils are to be given more freedom to introduce 20mph speed limits under proposals to improve road safety.
They would also be given more power to use variable speed limits outside schools under draft guidance issued by the Department for Transport (DfT).
Under the plans, which are open to pubic consultation, councils would have more scope to cut rural road speeds.
Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said it was "vital that speed limits are suitable for local conditions".
The DfT says there are about 2,000 of the 20mph schemes in England; it cites research suggesting they can reduce collisions and injuries by 60%.
A new online speed limit appraisal tool will help councils to assess the benefits and costs of such schemes.
"Road safety is a top priority and the guidance will help councils make evidence-based decisions to introduce local speed limits that reflect the needs of all road users," Mr Penning added.
No changes are planned to the national speed limits of 30mph on street-lit roads, 60mph on single carriageway roads and 70mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
