by Baltimore, Maryland — Baltimore City is expanding its automated traffic enforcement network with two new speed camera locations set to activate on Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, as officials push to improve safety around school zones and nearby neighborhoods.
The Baltimore City Department of Transportation confirmed the new installations are part of the city’s ongoing effort to reduce speeding and protect students, pedestrians, and residents in high-risk corridors.
Where the new speed cameras are being installed
According to city officials, the new speed cameras will be installed in the following school-zone areas beginning on or about Jan. 5:
- 1000–1300 blocks of Argonne Drive
Near Walter P. Carter Elementary/Middle School and Lois T. Murray Elementary School - 1000–1100 blocks of Harford Avenue
Near Johnston Square Elementary School
Transportation officials say these locations were selected based on traffic patterns and safety concerns within school communities.
When Baltimore school zone cameras operate
In Baltimore City, school zone speed cameras operate Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The cameras are active regardless of whether school is in session during those hours.
Speed cameras may be portable or fixed and are triggered when a vehicle is traveling 12 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit.
Speed camera fines drivers should know
The Baltimore DOT outlined the fine structure drivers will face if caught speeding past the cameras:
- 12–15 mph over the limit: $40 fine
- 16–19 mph over the limit: $70 fine
- 20–29 mph over the limit: $120 fine
- 30–39 mph over the limit: $230 fine
- 40+ mph over the limit: $425 fine
City officials stress that automated enforcement is intended to change driving behavior, not simply generate revenue.
New commercial vehicle height monitoring system launches
In addition to the speed cameras, the Baltimore DOT announced a new 24-hour Commercial Vehicle Height Monitoring System will also begin enforcement on Monday.
The system is designed to prevent oversized commercial vehicles from driving on restricted roadways, which can lead to congestion, property damage, and infrastructure deterioration.
Where the height monitoring system is located
The new height enforcement system will be installed at:
- 2600 block of Federal Street, Baltimore, MD 21213
Any truck over 12.5 feet tall traveling through a restricted location will be detected. The system captures photos and video of the vehicle’s cab and registration information for enforcement purposes.
Fines for commercial vehicle height violations
The fine structure for height monitoring violations is as follows:
- First offense: Warning
- Second offense: $125 fine
- Third or subsequent offenses: $250 fine each
Officials say the graduated penalty system is meant to encourage compliance while giving drivers an initial opportunity to correct behavior.
Safety concerns driving enforcement changes
City transportation leaders say the new enforcement tools come amid ongoing concerns about illegal truck routes and hazardous materials being transported through city streets.
In 2024, Maryland Transit Administration officials reported incidents involving trucks unlawfully carrying hazardous chemicals through Baltimore tunnels, highlighting the risks posed by oversized or improperly routed vehicles.
What drivers should expect next
Baltimore DOT urges drivers to:
- Watch posted speed limits in school zones
- Be aware of new enforcement locations
- Ensure commercial vehicles comply with height and route restrictions
Officials say additional enforcement locations may be added in the future as the city continues reviewing traffic safety data.
Do you think speed cameras improve safety around schools, or do they unfairly target drivers? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion.
