School Zone Camera Safety Program
Starting this school year, the City of Gainesville in conjunction with the Gainesville Police Department will introduce school zone cameras to address safety concerns and improve traffic compliance in school zones. This initiative aims to tackle the issue of speeding and ensure a safer environment for students. This project will initially cover two schools with additional added in the future.
HB 657 is a Florida law that was approved by The Florida Legislature and signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 31st, 2023. Under this law, the use of cameras is authorized to enforce speeding violations throughout the school day. The City of Gainesville, in conjunction with the Gainesville Police Department, will implement the school camera safety program for the 2025 - 2026 school year and beyond.
City of Gainesville Automated Traffic Safety Camera Program
The City of Gainesville is implementing an automated traffic safety camera program to improve roadway safety and protect the community. This initiative includes the deployment of cameras to enforce:
- Red-light violations at selected intersections
- Speed violations in designated school zones
These systems are designed to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, increase compliance with traffic laws, and enhance safety for pedestrians, students, and other motorists. Research shows that automated enforcement can significantly decrease crashes caused by red-light running and speeding in areas where children are present.
Educational Warning Period
Before monetary citations are issued, there will be an initial educational period. During this time, drivers who are recorded committing a violation will receive a warning notice instead of a fine. This phase is intended to raise awareness, give motorists an opportunity to adjust their driving behavior, and ensure the community is informed about the new program.
Learn More
City of Gainesville Ordinances
City of Gainesville Ordinance No. 2025-170 – Authorizes and regulates the use of traffic infraction detectors (including red-light and school-zone speed cameras):
View Ordinance No. 2025-170
Florida State Statutes
-
Florida Statute § 316.0083 – Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Program
Read § 316.0083
-
Florida Statute § 316.0776 – Traffic Infraction Detectors & Speed Detection Systems
Read § 316.0776
-
Florida Statute § 316.1895 – School Speed Zones & Enforcement
Read § 316.1895
Gainesville Police Department – School Zone Enforcement
For program locations, FAQs, and additional details:
Visit the GPD School Zone Enforcement Page
Why This Matters
Automated enforcement is a tool to support safer streets by encouraging compliance with traffic signals and speed limits. The educational warning period ensures that community members have notice and time to adapt before fines are issued.