Speeding continues to be one of the most urgent concerns voiced by Brampton residents, particularly in areas near schools, senior centres, and parks. In response, the City of Brampton is taking bold action to improve safety through a combination of traffic-calming measures—like speed bumps and improved signage—and the growing implementation of its Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) program.
The results are already speaking volumes. Backed by both local data and global research, ASE is proving to be a powerful deterrent to dangerous driving. It aligns with Brampton’s commitment to the Vision Zero framework—where no loss of life on city roads is acceptable. These cameras are reducing speeds, decreasing collisions, and helping to save lives.
At a recent Community Safety Telephone Town Hall hosted by the City of Brampton and Peel Regional Police, an overwhelming 86 per cent of residents expressed support for ASE in Community Safety Zones—areas like schools and parks where vulnerable residents, including children and seniors, are most at risk. Mayor Patrick Brown, reflecting on feedback from over 5,400 households, reinforced the city’s zero-tolerance approach to speeding: “These are places where children play and families walk to school. We will not compromise on their safety. ASE is working.”
A study released by CAA South Central Ontario revealed that 73 per cent of Ontario drivers slow down when approaching an ASE camera. In addition, 52 per cent said they are unlikely to speed even after passing through a monitored zone—an increase from 44 per cent in 2023. It’s a clear sign that the presence of ASE is changing driving behaviour for the better.
Still, as awareness of the program grows, so do the myths and misconceptions. Some believe ASE is ineffective or simply a cash grab. The truth, supported by hard data, shows otherwise. In Brampton, speeds have decreased by up to 18 km/h across several ASE sites. A Toronto study involving Sick Kids Hospital and Toronto Metropolitan University reported a 45 per cent reduction in vehicles exceeding speed limits where ASE was installed. Other jurisdictions like Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Washington, D.C., have seen similar results—proving ASE works across diverse communities.
Critics who say ASE only applies during school hours or only in front of schools are also misinformed. These cameras operate 24/7 in designated Community Safety Zones, which also include parks, daycares, senior residences, and hospitals. In fact, 69 per cent of Brampton residents support ASE usage during evenings and weekends. With clear signage and a 90-day notice period before new cameras become active, the city ensures transparency and fairness while giving drivers every opportunity to adjust their behaviour.
There are also concerns that ASE unfairly impacts financially stressed drivers. The City is clear: the program’s primary goal is safety, not revenue. Any revenue generated covers operational costs and supports other community safety initiatives. Drivers who obey the speed limit simply won’t be ticketed.
Some argue that going just a few km/h over the limit shouldn’t be penalized. However, studies from the World Health Organization show that even small increases in speed dramatically raise the risk of injury or death. Every 1 km/h increase can lead to a 3% rise in injury crashes and up to a 5% increase in fatal ones. Brampton does not disclose the exact threshold for enforcement to maintain fairness and encourage compliance.
There’s also no truth to the belief that ASE tickets affect your insurance or demerit points. Tickets are mailed to the registered vehicle owner, not the driver, and while they must be paid to avoid late fees or renewal issues, they do not impact driving records.
Privacy concerns are also addressed. ASE cameras only capture still images of the vehicle and licence plate when a violation occurs. No video is recorded, and no images of drivers or passengers are taken. Data is encrypted, securely stored, and accessed only by authorized City staff in accordance with strict privacy policies.
The City of Brampton is also urging the public to watch out for fraudulent ASE ticket scams. Real tickets are never sent by text message. Fines are only delivered by mail, and payments should only be made through official City channels. Anyone receiving suspicious texts should avoid clicking links and report the fraud to Peel Regional Police in person.
Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor and Chair of Legislative Services, noted, “This is about more than enforcement—it’s about creating safer, more livable neighbourhoods. The support we’ve seen from our residents confirms that we’re united in making Brampton’s streets safer.”
Michael Kralt, Director of Automated Speed Enforcement, echoed the sentiment: “Even a small reduction in speed can prevent a tragedy. ASE is not about punishment. It’s about prevention, education, and accountability.”
While speed bumps and other tools remain part of the City’s overall safety strategy, ASE delivers consistent and measurable results, especially in areas where physical road changes aren’t feasible. The City remains committed to a multi-pronged approach that protects lives and builds a safer Brampton for all.