Washington D.C. is stepping up enforcement in school zones with a new plan to install 32 stop sign cameras throughout the city. Announced by the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), the initiative is aimed at increasing driver compliance and enhancing child safety near schools.
The move comes as part of D.C.’s broader Vision Zero strategy, which seeks to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries by 2024. The city has already implemented speed cameras and red-light cameras — now, stop sign enforcement cameras are being added to the mix.
Why Stop Sign Cameras in School Zones?
According to DDOT, many drivers fail to make complete stops at stop signs, especially during busy school drop-off and pickup hours. These violations put children, crossing guards, and pedestrians at risk.
Stop sign cameras use automated license plate recognition and video capture to detect violations. If a driver rolls through or completely ignores a stop sign, a citation is automatically issued.
Where Will the Stop Sign Cameras Be Installed?
The DDOT has identified 32 high-risk school zones for installation. While the specific locations haven’t all been made public, the city says areas were selected based on:
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Historical crash data
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Community complaints
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Proximity to schools and crosswalks
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Traffic volume and pedestrian density
The goal is to target problem areas where non-compliance has led to near-misses or actual accidents.
How Much Is the Fine for a Stop Sign Violation?
Drivers caught by stop sign cameras in Washington D.C. could face fines of up to $100 per violation. The fines are civil penalties and do not add points to a driver’s license, but non-payment can lead to increased penalties or vehicle registration issues.
When Will the Cameras Be Active?
The cameras are expected to begin rolling out in late summer 2025, with full activation citywide by the start of the new school year in Fall 2025.
Community Response and Safety Impact
Parents and school administrators have expressed strong support for the new cameras, citing ongoing safety concerns during student arrival and dismissal times. Studies from other cities show that automated enforcement can lead to 30–50% reductions in stop sign violations.
Conclusion
Washington D.C.’s decision to install stop sign cameras in school zones is a proactive step toward safer streets. As enforcement ramps up, drivers should expect stricter compliance monitoring and should make full stops at all signed intersections — especially near schools.