South Fulton Activates Traffic Cameras in School Zones

(CITY OF SOUTH FULTON, GA – October 7, 2020) – City of South Fulton Police Chief Keith Meadows today issued the following statement regarding the city’s activation of traffic cameras in school zones. With a new school year underway and more students returning to campuses, the City of South Fulton Police Department remains committed to ensuring all students remain safe. To that end, we have reactivated traffic cameras that monitor drivers’ speeds as they travel through school zones within the city limits. 

The network of cameras has been active for a few weeks, issuing warnings and, in some cases, tickets with fines.  They were activated on a staggered schedule because of logistical factors. Starting Thursday, Oct. 8, the first set of cameras brought online will issue tickets. 

The effort is part of legislation passed last year by our city council. Named for Ren’gia Majors, an 11-year-old killed as she walked near Sandtown Middle School in February 2018, the ordinance placed cameras in all school zones.  The measure was passed after Georgia House Bill 978 became effective in July 2018, permitting the use of automated speed detection devices in school zones. 

In the City of South Fulton, the posted speed limits in various school zones vary. The limits change to 25 mph an hour before and an hour after school starts and an hour before and an hour after school ends. Flashing lights alert motorists when this limit is in effect. If lights are flashing, the speed limit is 25 mph. The lights do not flash during the rest of the school day. However, motorists must still adhere to the regular posted speed limits. State law directs that drivers can be cited for driving more than 10 mph above the posted speed limit in any school zone. That means anyone detected to be driving 36 mph when the lights are flashing or 11 mph over the posted limit at any other time during the school day, will be cited automatically.

The driver will receive a summons and notice of fine by mail. Fines are $100 for the first offense and $150 for each subsequent offense. The goal is simple. We seek to slow speeds in school zones when students are present. Drivers should be prepared to respond accordingly and proceed at safe speeds. 

City of South Fulton Government

The result also is simple. If you are caught driving 11 mph over the posted speed limit, you will be ticketed and fined. Maintain posted speeds and held keep our children safe.

FAQ

What is the Ren’gia Majors ordinance?

Adopted in October 2019, the ordinance placed traffic cameras in school zones within the City of South Fulton to enforce speed limits and ensure the safety of students. The ordinance -named for Ren’gia Majors, an 11-year-old killed in a February 2018 accident while walking near Sandtown Middle School – was modeled on Georgia House Bill 978.

What speed limits are in effect in school zones?

In the City of South Fulton, the posted speed limits in various school zones vary. The limits change to 25 mph an hour before and an hour after school starts and an hour before and an hour after school ends. Flashing lights alert motorists when this limit is in effect. If lights are flashing, the speed limit is 25 mph. The lights do not flash during the rest of the school day. However, motorists must still adhere to the regular posted speed limits.

Who sets the speed limits?

The speed limits are based on guidelines created by the State of Georgia.

What fines are imposed for violations?

Drivers cited for speeding in school zones will be fined $100 for the first offense and $150 for subsequent offenses.

Do I have to appear in court if I receive a citation?

You only have to appear in court if you plan to contest the citation. Otherwise, you can pay the fine at https://southfultonga.governmentwindow.com/ticket.html.