Minneapolis Speed Cameras Now Live At 5 'High-Risk' Intersections

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Automated speed enforcement cameras are officially live in Minneapolis for the first time in the city’s history.

Beginning Tuesday, Oct. 1, cameras at five "high-risk" intersections began issuing warnings as part of a new pilot program under the city’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries.

"These traffic safety cameras are about preventing reckless driving, stopping crashes from happening, and saving lives," said Mayor Jacob Frey.

"These cameras are not about tickets or revenue; they are about making sure that whether you’re walking, biking, driving, or rolling, you can move through our city safely."

The Pilot Program

The program, authorized by the Minnesota Legislature, is designed to reduce speeding in areas with a history of traffic crashes.

Traffic safety advocates say the cameras come as Minneapolis has seen a sharp rise in dangerous driving over the past several years.

"Traffic safety cameras have the potential to save lives in our city," said Minnesota Rep. Sencer-Mura, who represents a portion of south Minneapolis. "We need to do everything we can to keep our streets safer."

The five camera locations are:

• 3rd St. N near 1st Ave. N in Downtown
• Fremont Ave. N near W. Broadway Ave. in Near North
• 18th Ave. NE near Central Ave. NE in Northeast
• Chicago Ave. near Franklin Ave. E in Ventura Village
• Nicollet Ave. near 46th St. W in Kingfield/Tangletown

All locations are marked with signage, and temporary message boards have been in place to notify drivers.

Enforcement Details

• A warning will be issued for a first violation.
• Afterward, drivers going 10–19 mph over the limit will receive a $40 fine, while those speeding 20 mph or more over will face an $80 fine.
• Drivers can take a free traffic safety class instead of paying their first fine.
• Tickets will not appear on driving records and cannot be used to suspend licenses.
• Cameras will only capture the back of vehicles, with faces blurred to protect privacy.

Violations will be verified by Minneapolis traffic control agents before citations are issued. Vehicle owners will not be liable if their car was stolen or used without permission, provided a sworn statement is filed.

Expansion Plans

The city anticipates adding more cameras, including red light enforcement, in early 2026. Eleven additional intersections have already been identified as priorities for expansion. The rollout will be guided by pilot results, capacity, and community feedback.

"Safety on our streets for everyone—people walking, biking, driving, or rolling—is the most basic expectation we should be able to count on," said Sen. Scott Dibble. "The implementation of speed enforcement cameras is an important step to prevent the unnecessary and heartbreaking tragedies we’ve seen on Minneapolis streets."

Fines collected through the program will only cover implementation costs and future traffic safety improvements, as required by law.