The Ontario government says it will move to ban municipal automated speed enforcement cameras across the province, calling them a “cash grab” and announcing a new fund to support road safety without raising costs for drivers.
Legislation is expected to be introduced next month that would end the use of speed cameras, which have been installed in more than 40 municipalities since 2019. The province says instead it will fund alternative traffic-calming measures such as speed bumps, raised crosswalks, roundabouts, curb extensions, public education campaigns and improved signage.
“At a time when governments at all levels should be doing everything they can to lower costs and make life more affordable, too many municipalities are using speed cameras as a cash grab,” Premier Doug Ford said Thursday in Vaughan. “Enough is enough. Instead of making life more expensive by sending speeding tickets to drivers weeks after the fact, we’re supporting road-safety measures that will prevent speeding in the first place, keep costs down and keep our streets safe.”
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the decision reflects the government’s focus on prevention rather than revenue generation.
“Municipal speed cameras have become nothing more than a tool for raising revenue,” Sarkaria said. “Our government is focused on measures that truly protect the safety of all Ontarians and we will continue working with municipalities to ensure Ontario maintains its position as one of the safest jurisdictions in North America.”
If passed, the legislation would take effect immediately upon Royal Assent. Municipalities with existing school zone cameras will be required to install new signs by mid-November to warn drivers to slow down, with permanent flashing signs to follow by September 2026.
