Oakland launched its speed camera program on January 14, 2026, and the early data underscores just how common speeding is on city streets. In the first five weeks alone, cameras captured nearly 74,000 unique license plates, generating a total of 140,000 warnings during the 60 day grace period.
Citations began on March 15, 2026.
The Data Breakdown
Of the 74,000 unique plates flagged, about 47,500 (64%) received only one warning. The remaining 26,000 plates (34%) were caught speeding two or more times.
The busiest cameras were concentrated on major corridors. The top location — 73rd Avenue between Fresno and Krause — averaged 320 warnings per day. Broadway between 27th and 28th Street captured an average of 296 warnings per day northbound and 243 southbound. Hegenberger Road near Spencer and Hawley averaged 225 per day.
Camera Locations
Oakland installed 18 cameras at locations selected from the city's High Injury Network — the 6% of Oakland's streets that account for 60% of severe and fatal collisions. Locations were also chosen based on observed speeding patterns and proximity to schools, senior centers, and commercial districts.
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Check my citationPrivacy Protections
Oakland's program includes several privacy safeguards required by state law. Cameras capture only the rear license plate, not the windshield or driver's face. Facial recognition software is prohibited. Images are retained for five days if no violation is issued and 60 days if a violation is issued. Data from the cameras is confidential under California Vehicle Code section 22425(l)(1) and cannot be shared with other city departments except for anonymized speed data used by Safe Oakland Streets.
Fine Structure
Like all cities in the AB 645 pilot, Oakland follows the same fine schedule: $50 for 11 to 15 mph over, $100 for 16 to 25 mph over, $200 for 26 or more mph over, and $500 for exceeding 100 mph.
What This Means for Drivers
Oakland is the second California city to launch speed cameras after San Francisco. The volume of warnings in just five weeks suggests that citations will be significant now that the grace period has ended. Drivers who receive a citation have the right to request an initial review, administrative hearing, or appeal under the procedures established by AB 645.
TicketClear is a document preparation service, not a law firm. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney.