Barrie 
Ontario is preparing legislation to eliminate municipal automated speed enforcement cameras across the province, shifting the focus to alternative road safety measures.
Credit: Denny Müller/ Unsplash
Premier Doug Ford said municipalities have been using speed cameras as “a cash grab,” pointing to cases where single cameras brought in millions in revenue. In Toronto, one device issued over 65,000 tickets worth nearly $7 million. In the Region of Waterloo, almost 55,000 tickets were handed out in just six months.
Since 2019, more than 700 cameras have been installed in 40 municipalities, with more planned. Vaughan’s experience was similar—over 30,000 tickets were issued in just three weeks, leading council to scrap the program entirely.
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the province’s plan is to support solutions that “truly protect the safety of all Ontarians.” The government will set up a provincial fund to help municipalities replace cameras with measures like speed bumps, raised crosswalks, curb extensions, roundabouts, and stronger signage. Public education campaigns will also be part of the approach.
If passed, the ban would take effect immediately once it receives Royal Assent. Municipalities with cameras in school zones will be required to post large temporary warning signs by November 2025, followed by permanent flashing signs by September 2026.
Per the news release, Ontario has long ranked among the top five jurisdictions in North America for road safety, maintaining one of the lowest fatality rates per 10,000 licensed drivers. The government says the new plan continues that record without burdening drivers with ticket costs.
