Speed Cameras Coming To Twin Cities: Here's When Enforcement Begins

TWIN CITIES, MN — Automated speed enforcement is about to hit roads across the Twin Cities.

Both Minneapolis and Mendota Heights will launch pilot programs this summer that use speed cameras to catch drivers going over the limit.

Officials in both cities say the goal is to improve safety, especially near schools, while keeping enforcement fair and transparent.

The first citations could go out as early as August.

Mendota Heights: Cameras Near Schools, Warnings First

In Mendota Heights, speed cameras will go live on Aug. 1 as part of a four-year pilot program that runs through July 31, 2029.

According to the city, the cameras will be placed in areas "where speeding has been a concern, including near schools and residential neighborhoods."

Using radar and imaging technology, the system will capture license plates, not drivers, and issue citations by mail.

Here’s how penalties will work in Mendota Heights:

• First offense: Warning, no fine
• Second offense: Option to complete a traffic safety course to avoid a fine
• Repeat offenses: $40 fine for going 10 mph over the limit, $80 for 20 mph or over

"The new speed safety cameras are designed to improve road safety by deterring speeding and reducing traffic accidents," city officials said.

Signs will be posted to notify drivers where cameras are active.

Minneapolis: Citywide Rollout Tied To Vision Zero

Minneapolis is planning a broader rollout, also starting in August 2025, with five initial camera locations and potential expansion to 42 sites. Red-light enforcement may also be added later.

The program is part of Vision Zero, the city’s initiative to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries. Officials say cameras are a proven way to reduce speeding without relying on police stops.

Key points from the Minneapolis program:

• First offense: Warning
• Fines: $40 for speeding 10–19 mph over the limit, $80 for 20+ mph
• Privacy: No photos of drivers; only license plates are captured
• No license points or insurance penalties
• Revenues must be reinvested into traffic safety improvements
• Equity requirement: Every council ward will have at least two candidate camera sites

A city survey is currently open so residents can weigh in on where the cameras should be installed and how enforcement should be prioritized.

Why Now?

Speed cameras were off-limits in Minnesota for nearly two decades. The Minnesota Supreme Court struck down Minneapolis’ original "photo cop" program in 2007, and cities were left without authority to use automated enforcement.

But that changed when state lawmakers passed new legislation allowing pilot programs under strict rules. Now, cities like Minneapolis and Mendota Heights are taking the lead.

What’s Next?

Both cities plan to raise awareness with public outreach campaigns, signage, and educational materials before citations begin. In Mendota Heights, the city said, “Our goal with this new system is to make Mendota Heights a safer place for everyone.”

For more information or to provide feedback, residents can visit the official city websites or contact their local police departments.