SB 720 Red Light Cameras: Every California City Now Has Authority to Install Them

Senate Bill 720, which took effect in October 2025, fundamentally changed red light camera enforcement in California. Citations issued under this program are typically charged as CVC 21453(a) (Red Light Violation) or CVC 21453(c) (Red Light — Circular Red). Before SB 720, only cities that had existing programs were grandfathered in. Now, any California city or county can install and operate red light cameras. If you've received a notice in the mail with a photo of your vehicle at an intersection, this is likely an SB 720 red light camera citation.

Check if your red light camera citation qualifies for an administrative review. Check my camera ticket → →

What SB 720 Changed for CVC 21453(a) Enforcement

Prior to SB 720, California's red light camera programs operated under a patchwork of local ordinances. Many cities that had programs let them expire due to cost, controversy over accuracy, and legal challenges. SB 720 created a new statewide framework with standardized requirements for camera programs, fine structures, and the contest process.

• All California cities and counties may now install red light cameras
• Cameras must meet state-certified accuracy standards
• Notice of Violation must be mailed within 15 days of the alleged violation
• The registered owner receives the citation, not necessarily the driver
• Fines range from approximately $100 to $500 depending on the city

How SB 720 Citations Are Different from Regular Red Light Tickets

When an officer issues a red light ticket at the scene, the citation goes on the driver's record and carries DMV points. An SB 720 red light camera citation works differently: it is issued to the registered owner of the vehicle, not the driver. This has important implications for your DMV record and your insurance.

The SB 720 Response Process

SB 720 citations must be contested through an administrative review process, not through the traditional Trial by Written Declaration process used for officer-issued tickets. Here is the standard sequence:

1. Receive Notice of Violation by mail (within 15 days of alleged violation)
2. You have 30 days from the notice date to request a review
3. Submit a written Initial Review Request to the issuing city or county
4. City reviews and responds — typically within 60 days
5. If denied, request a secondary (supervisory) review
6. Final option: request a court hearing

What Cities Are Installing Red Light Cameras Under SB 720?

As of 2026, cities actively installing or expanding red light camera programs under SB 720 include Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento, Fresno, Long Beach, Bakersfield, Anaheim, and many smaller cities. The program is expanding rapidly — cities that previously had no cameras are now authorized and funded to install them.

Common Grounds for Contesting an SB 720 Citation

• You were not the driver (registered owner defense)
• The vehicle in the photo is not yours (license plate misread)
• The traffic signal timing did not comply with state standards
• You were in the intersection due to a sudden emergency
• Camera calibration or image quality issues
• The Notice of Violation was not received within the 15-day window

TicketClear builds your SB 720 administrative review request and mails it to the correct agency. See how TicketClear handles red light camera tickets → →