Chicago is rolling out 50 additional automated speed cameras around schools and parks in 2025 as part of a safety-and-budget package adopted for the year. The plan launched with 16 sites in early spring, followed by multiple waves through early summer, with more locations slated before year’s end. Warnings precede ticketing to give drivers time to adjust to posted limits and signage. Here is a Map of Chicago Red Light Camera & Speed Camera Locations.
- Total new cameras in 2025: 50 (phased citywide rollout)
- Ticket thresholds: 6–10 mph over limit = $35; 11+ mph over = $100
- Grace period: 30-day warning period + short blackout period before citations
- Where: Within 660 ft of a school or park boundary (per state law)
How enforcement works
Every new camera starts with a 30-day warning period (no fines). After a brief blackout to ensure mailed warnings arrive, citations begin. Chicago issues $35 tickets for speeds 6–10 mph over the limit, and $100 for 11+ mph over. School-zone enforcement runs on school days 7 a.m.–7 p.m. (20 mph when children are present from 7 a.m.–4 p.m.; posted limit otherwise). Park-zone enforcement generally follows park hours, typically 6 a.m.–11 p.m.
Timeline & rollout
Below is a simplified view of the 2025 expansion. Exact activation dates vary by site; ticketing follows each warning period.
| Wave | When | What happened |
|---|---|---|
| Wave 1 | April | First 16 sites began issuing warnings; ticketing mid-May after blackout. |
| Wave 2 | Mid-May | Next round of locations activated, continuing the school/park focus. |
| Wave 3 | June | Additional school and park zones added; several began ticketing in July/August. |
| Wave 4 | July | New South and Southwest Side sites entered warning, with enforcement dates set for August/September. |
| Remaining | Through Dec | Further sites scheduled to reach the full 50-camera target. |
Where the first waves landed
Early sites near schools
- Lake View High School (Ashland Ave.)
- Mahalia Jackson High School (Vincennes Ave.)
- James Farnsworth Elementary (N Central Ave.)
- James Thorp Elementary (N Austin Ave.)
- Benito Juarez High School (Cermak Rd.)
- Frances Xavier Warde School (S Desplaines St.)
Early sites near parks
- Winnemac Park (N Damen Ave.)
- Skinner Park (W Jackson Blvd.)
- Chase Park (N Ashland Ave.)
- Broadway Armory Park (N Broadway)
- Lincoln Park (W Fullerton Pkwy.)
- Arrigo, Heritage Green, McKinley & La Villita Parks (various)
Note: The city selects locations using crash history, traffic patterns, and feedback; specific coordinates may shift as construction and curb-side conditions change.
Why the expansion?
The city frames automated enforcement as a safety tool to reduce speeding where people walk, bike, and cross to reach schools and parks. Officials also acknowledged that new cameras were built into the 2025 budget, with anticipated fine revenue allocated to public obligations. Historically, new cameras issue more citations in the first weeks as drivers adapt, with violations typically declining over time as speeds come down.
Tips to avoid tickets
- Expect school-day slowdowns: If you’re near a school from 7 a.m.–7 p.m., check for children present and the lower 20 mph limit (7 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Watch park hours: Many parks operate 6 a.m.–11 p.m.; assume enforcement during those hours unless posted otherwise.
- Scan for signage: “Photo Enforced” and speed-limit signs appear before cameras. If you see one, hold the posted limit (or 20 mph in qualifying school periods).
- Build buffer time: Rushing leads to mistakes. Leaving five minutes earlier is cheaper than a $35–$100 citation.
Tickets, payment & challenges
If a citation arrives, verify the plate, location, timestamp, and speed reading. Ensure the school/park zone was eligible for enforcement at that time (school day/hours; park open). If you believe the evidence is wrong or signage was inadequate, follow the instructions on the notice to contest by the listed deadline. Paying promptly can prevent late fees; ignoring notices risks additional penalties and collection actions.
Bottom line
Chicago’s 2025 expansion adds 50 cameras to school and park zones with clear rules, defined warning periods, and predictable fines. If you slow to the posted limits—especially during school and park enforcement windows—you’ll avoid tickets and contribute to safer streets for students, families, and park users across the city.