California Construction Zone Speed Cameras: AB 289 and What It Means for Drivers

California's AB 289 authorized a separate pilot program for automated speed cameras specifically in active highway construction zones — separate from the AB 645 school zone and street racing corridor program. These citations are typically issued under CVC 22350 (Basic Speed Law) or CVC 22348(b) (Speed Limit — Special Zone). Construction zone camera citations carry their own fines and processes.

What Is AB 289? (CVC 22350 and CVC 22348(b) in Work Zones)

Assembly Bill 289 authorized Caltrans and local transportation agencies to deploy automated speed enforcement cameras in active construction zones on California highways and roads. The program was designed to protect highway workers, who face significant risks from speeding drivers in work zones.

AB 289 vs. AB 645: Key Differences

• AB 645: School zones and street racing corridors in select cities
• AB 289: Active highway construction zones on Caltrans and local projects
• AB 289 fines may be higher than AB 645 fines due to enhanced work zone penalties
• Both programs use income-based fine adjustments
• Both use the administrative review process, not traditional court

Construction Zone Camera Fine Amounts

Construction zone camera fines under AB 289 follow an income-based structure similar to AB 645, but the base fines are generally higher to reflect the enhanced safety risk in active work zones. California law also provides for enhanced penalties for violations in work zones where workers are present.

• First offense: $100–$500 base fine (income-adjusted)
• Second offense within 12 months: significantly higher
• Violations when workers are present carry enhanced penalties
• Income-based reduction applies — apply through the issuing agency

How to Respond to a Construction Zone Camera Citation

Construction zone camera citations under AB 289 follow the same administrative review structure as AB 645 citations. Your Notice of Violation will identify the issuing agency (Caltrans or the local authority). You have 30 days from the notice date to request an Initial Review.

Grounds for Contesting a Construction Zone Camera Ticket

• Workers were not present at the time of the alleged violation
• The work zone signage did not comply with Caltrans standards
• You were not the driver of the vehicle
• The license plate in the photograph is incorrect
• Camera calibration or technical documentation issues
• The cited speed was within the posted work zone limit

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