Speed Cam Alert

How the speed camera programme works in Long Beach

California’s Speed Safety System, and how Long Beach Public Works runs it in Long Beach.

The Speed Safety System

California's Speed Safety System uses fixed automated speed enforcement cameras to reduce dangerous speeding in high-collision areas. In Long Beach the cameras are authorised by California AB 645, a five-year pilot limited to the cities it names, running through January 1, 2032.

The system focuses on camera placement in areas with:

  • High rates of speeding-related crashes
  • Vulnerable road users (pedestrians, cyclists)
  • Community safety concerns
  • School zones and residential areas

How It Works

1

Detection

Cameras detect vehicles travelling 11 mph or more over the posted limit. Below that threshold, nothing is recorded.

2

Verification

The system captures the rear licence plate. Long Beach Public Works reviews it before anything is mailed — no officer, no traffic stop.

3

Citation

The registered owner receives the notice by mail. A first violation of 11–15 mph over is a warning, not a fine.

4

Response Options

Pay it, apply to reduce the amount, or protest it. AB 645 requires income-based reductions and payment plans.

Sources

Everything on this page comes from the primary sources below. If you find something that disagrees with an official source, the official source is right and we want to know — tell us.

  1. Speed Safety System — programme page, timeline and device map — City of Long Beach Public Works
    The only published source for Long Beach camera coordinates: 36 devices at 18 locations, one per direction of travel.
  2. Speed Safety System Impact Report (adopted 16 December 2025) — City of Long Beach Public Works
    Council-adopted report. Appendix 1 lists all 18 locations with posted limits, council districts, collision history and the criteria used to choose them.
  3. AB 645 — Vehicles: speed safety system pilot program (2023) — California Legislature
    The statute authorising the speed camera pilot in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San José, Oakland, Glendale and Long Beach through Jan 1, 2032.

Sources last verified August 3, 2026.