VAUGHAN — The Ontario government is preparing to introduce legislation next month that would ban the use of municipal automated speed cameras across the province. The move marks a major policy shift, replacing municipal speed camera programs with a new provincial fund to support alternative traffic-calming measures.
Premier Doug Ford said the decision is aimed at reducing costs for drivers while ensuring safer streets.
“At a time when governments at all levels should be doing everything they can to lower costs and make life more affordable, too many municipalities are using speed cameras as a cash grab,” Ford said. “Enough is enough. Instead of making life more expensive by sending speeding tickets to drivers weeks after the fact, we’re supporting road-safety measures that will prevent speeding in the first place, keep costs down and keep our streets safe.”
Today, I announced that we’re banning municipal speed cameras in Ontario to stop the cash grab from drivers and taxpayers.
Instead, we’re investing in new traffic-calming measures like signs and roundabouts that will stop people from speeding in the first place.
Find out more:… pic.twitter.com/LOyAqiw2G0
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) September 25, 2025
From Speed Cameras to Traffic-Calming
Since 2019, more than 700 speed cameras have been installed in 40 municipalities across Ontario, with more planned in the coming months. If passed, the new legislation will immediately halt their use once Royal Assent is granted.
To replace the cameras, the government will establish a provincial fund that municipalities can access to support measures such as:
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Speed bumps and speed cushions
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Raised crosswalks
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Curb extensions
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Roundabouts
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Enhanced signage and flashing-light installations
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Public education and awareness campaigns
Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria argued that the shift will prioritize safety over municipal revenue.
“Municipal speed cameras have become nothing more than a tool for raising revenue,” Sarkaria said. “Our government is focused on measures that truly protect the safety of all Ontarians and we will continue working with municipalities to ensure Ontario maintains its position as one of the safest jurisdictions in North America.”
Transition Measures for School Zones
For municipalities with existing speed cameras in school zones, the legislation will require large new signs to be installed by mid-November 2025. Permanent signage with flashing lights will follow by September 2026. The government says this approach will serve as a visible deterrent to drivers while avoiding the delayed penalties associated with mailed speeding tickets.
Municipal Reaction
Local leaders have responded to the announcement with cautious optimism. Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca welcomed the province’s financial support for alternative safety measures.
“I thank Premier Doug Ford for providing clarity on the speed camera program and for his commitment to provide financial support for municipal traffic-calming measures,” Del Duca said. “Road safety will always be a priority and, in Vaughan, we will do everything possible to protect vulnerable road users. But we will also focus our attention on fighting real crime and going after real criminals.”
A New Approach to Road Safety
The government’s plan signals a clear departure from municipal speed enforcement toward proactive safety measures. By shifting the focus to infrastructure improvements and education, Ontario aims to balance affordability for drivers with its commitment to maintaining one of the lowest traffic fatality rates in North America.
The proposed legislation will be introduced when the Ontario Legislature resumes next month.
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