School Bus Safety Cameras

Automated School Bus Flashing Red-Light Enforcement

As part of its Safe Routes for All initiative, the City of New Haven is implementing automated school bus flashing red-light safety cameras on New Haven Public Schools buses. The program is designed to reduce dangerous illegal passing of stopped school buses and improve safety for children getting on and off the bus.

The City Board of Alders approved the local ordinance in early August 2025, following enabling state legislation adopted in June 2023 (Public Act 23-116), which authorizes municipalities to use automated traffic enforcement safety devices under locally adopted ordinances.

How It Works

When a school bus is stopped and its red lights are flashing, all traffic in both directions must stop at least ten feet behind the bus. The stop arm is deployed at the same time to increase visibility, but the legal requirement to stop is based on the red flashing lights.

• Activation: Cameras activate when the bus is stopped and red lights are flashing.
• Recording: Vehicles that illegally pass the bus during this time are recorded.
• Citation: A citation carrying a $250 fine is mailed to the vehicle’s registered owner.
• Review & Appeal: All footage is reviewed prior to issuance. Vehicle owners have 30 days to appeal a citation.

A warning period is coming soon before full enforcement begins.

Education, Not Just Enforcement

This program is designed to change behavior, not just issue tickets. Drivers who receive a citation are provided with educational resources, available in English and Spanish, to help them better understand school bus safety laws and why stopping matters. The goal is long-term safety through awareness and compliance.

Did You Know? 

• School buses are illegally passed over 45 million times a year nationwide. These cameras protect students during their most vulnerable moment, getting on and off the bus.

• 94% of drivers who receive a citation never get a second one. This technology educates drivers and changes behavior, making our roads safer.

• The program is 100% funded by violators. No taxpayer dollars are used. New Haven schools gain modern safety technology at no cost to the district.

This initiative reinforces existing traffic laws and reflects the City’s commitment to child safety, traffic safety, and quality of life across New Haven neighborhoods.