Albuquerque Launches 'Safety Sticks' Parking Cameras

New automated system to issue $30 tickets for parking violations over 90 seconds

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Albuquerque is rolling out a new parking enforcement program using automated 'Safety Stick' cameras to monitor areas with red or yellow curbs, bike lanes, and school zones. Drivers who park illegally for more than 90 seconds will automatically receive a $30 citation sent to their registered address, similar to how speed camera tickets are issued.

Why it matters

The new 'Safety Stick' cameras aim to address frequent parking violations and complaints the city receives, especially around school zones where pedestrian safety is a concern. By automating enforcement, the city hopes to free up limited parking enforcement resources to focus on other areas.

The details

The 'Safety Sticks' will be installed in specific areas where parking rules are often ignored, such as red or yellow curbs and bike lanes. If a vehicle is detected parked illegally for more than 90 seconds, a photo of the vehicle and license plate will be captured, and a $30 citation will be automatically mailed to the registered owner. The city also plans to use the cameras in school zones to monitor for drivers ignoring crosswalks.

  • The new 'Safety Stick' parking cameras are set to be installed in Albuquerque in the coming months.

The players

Maria Griego

City parking division manager for Albuquerque.

Nathan Martinez

Director of general services for the City of Albuquerque.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We'll also be using these in crosswalk areas around schools. One of the number one complaints we receive in the parking division is there are people parking in a crosswalk where students are crossing.”

— Maria Griego, City parking division manager (KOB)

“We have 7 officers who patrol the city, making sure that people park appropriately. But in some areas we see repeat offenders and people who refuse to acknowledge red or yellow curbing.”

— Nathan Martinez, Director of general services (KOB)

What’s next

The city plans to begin installing the 'Safety Stick' parking cameras across Albuquerque in the coming months.

The takeaway

Albuquerque's new automated parking enforcement system aims to improve compliance with parking rules and free up limited enforcement resources, though drivers will need to be vigilant to avoid $30 tickets for even brief parking violations.