Ontario Prohibited All Speed Cameras Following Ford's Statement That They Are A Money-Making Scheme | Carscoops

      Speed cameras in the region will be removed within two weeks in response to new legislation.

      November 2, 2025, at 08:45

      by Chris Chilton

      The Ontario government is moving to prohibit all automated speed cameras. Traffic-calming measures such as speed bumps will take their place. Critics argue that these cameras served primarily as revenue generators and did not enhance safety.

      Drivers in Ontario, Canada, will soon no longer be concerned about receiving unexpected speeding tickets in the mail. The province declared its intention to eliminate all automated speed enforcement cameras in the area over the next two weeks, labeling the devices as outdated “cash grabs” and committing to a new strategy for road safety.

      For years, these small units located in school zones and busy suburban areas have elicited a mix of frustration and begrudging acceptance. Some drivers felt the cameras effectively slowed traffic, caught excessive speeders, and improved road safety without needing additional police presence.

      What Prompted the Change?

      On the other hand, critics contended that the cameras were more focused on generating revenue rather than enhancing safety, and the government has prioritized this argument. Ontario Premier Doug Ford described the cameras as a “cash grab,” claiming they do little to deter speeding and instead burden drivers with fines that are delayed.

      Last Thursday, legislation was passed to ban speed cameras and to have them removed from the roads within two weeks, following a series of vandalism incidents targeting the devices.

      These cameras will be replaced by physical traffic-calming strategies, including speed bumps, roundabouts, and flashing light signs, although Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria has not specified a timeline for their implementation.

      Such infrastructure incurs costs rather than generating revenue, and Premier Ford has stated that his administration will establish a fund to assist municipalities with financing. However, he has not disclosed the amount of funding available or its sources.

      The bill to eliminate the cameras was bundled with a red tape reduction initiative, as reported by CBC, resulting in minimal discussion and no public input before becoming law.

      This proposal to ban cameras contrasts with legislation in Maryland, where a new tiered fine system could impose fines of up to $425 on some drivers.

      Concerns Regarding Safety Gaps

      While many drivers might view this development as cause for celebration, not everyone is pleased. Numerous individuals believe that speed cameras do effectively reduce accidents, a viewpoint supported by various studies.

      Additionally, there are worries about the period of time between the removal of the cameras and the installation of traffic-calming measures.

      “There are many steps we can take to slow people down,” NDP Leader Marit Stiles told CBC. “But I’ll tell you, if even one pedestrian or child is harmed in the interim, it will rest on this premier’s conscience.”