Red-Light Camera Tickets: What They Are, Where They’re Legal

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Red-Light Camera Tickets: What They Are, Where They’re Legal, and How to Handle One

Red-light cameras (RLCs) are automated enforcement tools that photograph vehicles entering intersections after the traffic signal turns red. If a potential violation occurs, a citation with images or video evidence is generally mailed to the registered owner, including contest instructions and the alleged violation’s timestamp.

How Red-Light Cameras Work

  • Detection: Sensors trigger cameras when a vehicle enters an intersection after the light turns red.
  • Review: Before a citation is mailed, most jurisdictions require confirmation by a sworn officer or authorized reviewer.
  • Notice: Citations include images and a link to video evidence.

Do They Improve Safety?

Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety IIHS shows right-angle (T-bone) crashes decline when cameras are installed and paired with good signal timing and signage. Rear-end crashes sometimes rise slightly, but overall severe injuries reduce.

State-by-State Status of Red-Light Cameras (2025)

Definitions:
  • Allowed: Explicit state/local authority for operation.
  • Prohibited: Banned by statute.
  • No State Law: Not explicitly addressed; some cities may operate programs.
  • Limited: Approved for special zones, pilots, or under restricted conditions.
Red-Light Camera Status by State (including DC)
State Status Notes
Alabama Allowed Specified jurisdictions.
Alaska No State Law No statewide program.
Arizona Allowed Statewide.
Arkansas No State Law No statewide program.
California Allowed Statewide/local programs.
Colorado Allowed Statewide.
Connecticut Limited School zones, safety corridors.
Delaware Allowed Statewide.
District of Columbia Allowed Comprehensive citywide program.
Florida Allowed Statewide.
Georgia Allowed Statewide, often school zones/intersections.
Hawaii Allowed Pilot in City/County of Honolulu; expanding.
Idaho No State Law No statewide program.
Illinois Allowed Specified jurisdictions.
Indiana No State Law No statewide program.
Iowa Limited Some cities allow.
Kansas No State Law No statewide program.
Kentucky No State Law No statewide program; no explicit ban or authorization.
Louisiana Allowed Specified jurisdictions.
Maine Prohibited Banned by statute.
Maryland Allowed Statewide.
Massachusetts No State Law No statewide program.
Michigan No State Law No statewide program.
Minnesota Allowed Specified jurisdictions.
Mississippi Prohibited Banned by statute.
Missouri Limited Some cities allow.
Montana Prohibited Banned by statute.
Nebraska No State Law No statewide program.
Nevada No State Law No statewide program; no explicit state law, but local programs may exist.
New Hampshire Prohibited Banned by statute.
New Jersey No State Law No active programs, pilot expired.
New Mexico Allowed Specified jurisdictions (e.g., Albuquerque).
New York Allowed NYC, Nassau & Suffolk programs.
North Carolina Allowed Local authority under state limits.
North Dakota No State Law No statewide program.
Ohio Allowed Statewide.
Oklahoma No State Law No statewide program.
Oregon Allowed Statewide/local programs.
Pennsylvania Allowed Philadelphia, Pittsburgh authorized.
Rhode Island Allowed Local programs.
South Carolina Prohibited Banned by statute.
South Dakota Prohibited Banned by statute.
Tennessee Allowed Permitted, legacy programs under local law.
Texas Prohibited Banned statewide by 2019 law.
Utah No State Law No statewide program.
Vermont No State Law No statewide program.
Virginia Allowed Multiple cities/counties permitted.
Washington Allowed Statewide, select zones.
West Virginia Prohibited Banned by statute.
Wisconsin No State Law No statewide program.
Wyoming No State Law No statewide program.

Sources: IIHS, World Population Review, Consumer Shield, GHSA (Sep 2025).

If You Get a Red-Light Camera Ticket

  1. Review evidence: Check provided images/video for clarity and accuracy.
  2. Check signage: Most states require posted warning signs where cameras operate.
  3. Note deadlines: Respond promptly to avoid late fees or collection action.
  4. Appeal when justified: Common grounds include signal malfunctions, emergency vehicle operation, or license plate errors.

Bottom Line

Red-light cameras are proven to reduce intersection crashes but regulation is complex. Penalties may be civil or criminal—some states issue points, most only fines. Always confirm local and state law, especially for fleet and interstate drivers.

Disclaimer: Traffic Safety Store provides this article for general informational purposes only on TrafficSafetyStore.com. This content is not legal advice, does not create any client relationship, and may not reflect the most current legal standards. Always verify red-light camera laws and requirements with official transportation agencies and current statutes before relying on or acting on this information.

For further information: IIHS Safety Camera Laws GHSA State Laws: Red Light Cameras NHTSA Automated Enforcement CDC Red-Light Camera Fact Sheet
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