Baltimore Drivers Face Staggering $425 Fines as New Maryland Speed Camera Law Takes Effect

Maryland is dramatically increasing fines for speed camera violations starting October 1. The new law replaces a flat $40 fee with a tiered penalty system. The changes impact drivers across the state, particularly in the Baltimore region.

Governor Wes Moore signed the legislation, House Bill 182, into law this past May. The overhaul aims to enhance safety in school zones and residential areas. It is the first significant update to automated enforcement penalties in over a decade.

Tiered Penalty Structure Sets New Maximum Fine

Fines will now directly correlate with how fast a driver is going. The new maximum penalty for exceeding the speed limit by 40 mph or more is $425. According to an analysis by the Associated Press, this is a more than tenfold increase from the previous cap.

For speeds 12-15 mph over the limit, the fine remains $40. The penalty jumps to $70 for 16-19 mph over. Drivers going 20-29 mph over will receive a $120 ticket. The fine for 30-39 mph over the limit is set at $230. This structure applies to all local government speed camera programs.

Focus on High-Risk Zones and Revenue for Safety

Speed monitoring systems are legally restricted to specific areas. These include school zones, residential districts with speed limits of 35 mph or less, and certain state highways. Proponents argue the steeper fines will act as a stronger deterrent against dangerous driving.

Revenue from these fines is legally required to fund local public safety initiatives. Data from Howard County officials, cited by The Baltimore Sun, shows their cameras issued over 41,000 citations last year. The new fines are expected to generate significantly more revenue for such programs across Maryland.

Critics, however, view the hikes as a revenue grab that punishes everyday commuters. Some law enforcement officials anticipate an increase in drivers contesting tickets.

The new Maryland speed camera fines represent a major shift in traffic enforcement policy. Officials hope the steep penalties will save lives by compelling drivers to slow down. All motorists are advised to be extra vigilant of posted speed limits, especially in designated safety zones.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: Where are speed cameras typically located in Maryland?

Speed cameras are only permitted in specific high-risk areas. These include school zones, residential areas with speed limits of 35 mph or less, and on designated state highways. The goal is to protect vulnerable pedestrians like children.

Q2: How will I know if I receive a ticket from a speed camera?

A citation from a speed camera is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner. It typically includes a photograph of the vehicle’s license plate, the recorded speed, and the date and location of the violation. You will not be pulled over at the time.

Q3: Can I contest a speed camera ticket in Maryland?

Yes, you can contest a ticket. Many counties, like Baltimore County, have an ombudsman program for disputing citations you believe were issued in error. The ticket notice will include instructions on how to request a review.

Q4: Do these new fines apply to highway work zones?

No, this specific law covers local speed camera programs. Separate, increased fines for speeding in highway work zones already took effect at the start of 2025. Those penalties can reach up to $1,000.

Q5: Why did Maryland decide to change the fine structure?

Lawmakers stated the primary reason is to improve road safety. They believe higher, tiered fines will be a more effective deterrent against excessive speeding, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic. The old flat fee had not been updated for many years.

Trusted Sources: The Associated Press, The Baltimore Sun, Maryland General Assembly.