City of New Orleans Clarifies Speed and Red Light Camera Operations Ahead of School Year
NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans today shared important updates with the public on the status of automated traffic enforcement cameras ahead of the new school year. This information reflects the recent changes to state law and ongoing infrastructure improvements required to ensure compliance.
Beginning August 1, speeding tickets will not be issued via camera at any location in the city. This change is due to a new state law that restricts automated speed enforcement to school zones that meet strict compliance requirements and are governed by a Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (CEA). As of now, those requirements have not been finalized, and physical adjustments to school zones are still needed.
While speed enforcement via camera is paused, red-light cameras will continue to function as normal. Drivers who ignore traffic signals at designated intersections may still receive citations through the City’s automated enforcement system.
It is important to note:
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School Zone Speed Cameras: Were deactivated before the end of the last school year and will remain off until the zones are brought into compliance with state law
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Speed Cameras Outside School Zones: Will be deactivated beginning August 1, in accordance with the new state restrictions
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Red-Light Cameras: Remain active and fully operational citywide
While there may be some confusion about camera enforcement, the City will not deactivate any red-light camera systems tomorrow. The changes affect only the speed enforcement portion of the program.
Beacon Status
Flashing school zone beacons are maintained by the Department of Public Works (DPW) and are not connected to camera enforcement functions. Some beacons are currently operational, while others are scheduled for upgrades. DPW has allocated funding for beacon replacement and plans to begin work soon. Beacons are programmed to operate according to the school calendar, and speeding tickets will not be issued until the zones are fully compliant.
Everyone is strongly encouraged to drive safely and remain within the posted speed limits at all times. Speeding increases the risk of serious injury or death for both drivers and pedestrians.
Residents with questions about enforcement or beacon functionality are encouraged to contact DPW at (504) 658-8000 or visit nola.gov for updates.
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