California Expands Red Light Camera Programs

New law allows cities and counties to opt-in to automated traffic enforcement systems

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A new California law, Senate Bill 720, will authorize the use of red light cameras in cities across the state. The law aims to improve traffic safety and equity by allowing local governments to opt into automated enforcement programs, while also implementing measures to protect driver privacy and limit fines for first-time offenders.

Why it matters

Red light running is a major safety issue, with over 1,100 people killed and 107,000 injured in such crashes nationwide in 2022. Automated enforcement has been shown to reduce fatal red light running crashes by 21% in large cities. However, previous programs have faced challenges with high costs and disparate impacts on communities of color. This new law seeks to address those concerns.

The details

SB 720 authorizes cities and counties to establish red light camera programs, building on a previous pilot program in select cities. The new law reduces fines for first-time offenders, sends citations to the vehicle rather than the driver, and requires revenues to be used for street safety infrastructure. It also mandates public awareness campaigns and a 60-day warning period before fines are issued.

  • SB 720 was signed into law in 2026.
  • The previous pilot program under AB 645 was established in 2023 and ran for 5 years.

The players

Sen. Angelique Ashby

The Democratic state senator from Sacramento who authored SB 720.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

A nonprofit research organization that found red light cameras reduced fatal crashes at signalized intersections by 14%.

Sacramento County Sheriff's Office

A law enforcement agency that previously shut down its red light camera program, citing the high costs of collecting fines.

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What they’re saying

“The program was intended to be cost-neutral, but in reality, the program operated at a deficit as law enforcement and court personnel struggled to collect fines.”

— Sgt. Amar Gandhi, Spokesperson, Sacramento County Sheriff's Office (The Modesto Bee)

What’s next

Cities and counties across California will now have the option to implement red light camera programs, with public awareness campaigns and a 60-day warning period required before any fines are issued.

The takeaway

This new law aims to improve traffic safety and equity through automated enforcement, while addressing past challenges with high costs and disparate impacts. The success of these programs will depend on how well cities and counties can implement the new requirements around fines, infrastructure funding, and public engagement.