Osceola County, FL – Newly installed speed cameras in school zones across Osceola County are already capturing dangerous and reckless driving behavior — including vehicles traveling at more than triple the posted speed limit, according to local authorities.
Cameras Clocking Drivers at 70 MPH in School Zones
Since activation, some drivers have been clocked going 60 to 70 miles per hour in areas where school zone speed limits are typically 15 to 20 mph.
“We’ve seen people violate that sometimes as high as 60 or 70 mph, which is outrageous,” said Captain Kim Montes with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.
“We want to deter that behavior… and we’re hoping these speed cameras bring it back in check.”
The implementation follows a new Florida state law passed in 2023, which allows for automated speed enforcement in designated school zones across multiple counties and cities, including Orlando, Palm Bay, Eustis, Ocoee, and St. Cloud.
Over 17,000 Tickets Already Issued
According to the sheriff’s office, more than 17,000 civil infractions have already been issued in Osceola County alone. The cameras are currently operating in school zones for the following campuses:
- Bellalago Academy
- Boggy Creek Elementary
- BridgePrep Academy
- Deerwood Elementary
- Horizon Middle
- KOA Elementary
- Liberty High
- Mater Brighton Lakes Academy
- Mater Palms Academy
- Narcoossee Elementary
- Parkway Middle
- Poinciana High
- Reedy Creek Elementary
- Sunrise Elementary
If a driver exceeds the speed limit by 11 mph or more, the camera captures an image of the vehicle’s license plate, and the driver receives a $98 civil infraction as reported by ClickOrlando
How the Law Works
Under the state law:
- Cameras operate 30 minutes before school starts, during school hours, and 30 minutes after dismissal.
- Each violation is manually reviewed by deputies to ensure flashing lights were active, signage was visible, and the vehicle matches the plate.
- No points are assessed, and insurance rates are not affected.
Officials Emphasize Safety, Not Revenue
When asked if this is simply a money-making scheme, Capt. Montes responded:
“We think it’s cheaper than a funeral for a child.”
With the first day of school approaching on August 11, officials are urging drivers to start adjusting their habits now.
“Everyone has to remember that on August 11, we have to change our driving behavior,” Montes said. “Around schools, you have to be vigilant.”
How to Stay Safe and Avoid Fines
To avoid getting ticketed — and more importantly, to protect children — drivers should:
- Observe flashing school zone lights carefully
- Follow posted speed limits, even during off-peak hours
- Anticipate increased foot traffic and school buses
- Plan extra travel time during drop-off and pickup hours
Do you support speed cameras in school zones, or do you think they go too far? Share your thoughts in the comments.
