Automated Traffic Enforcement

Automated Traffic Enforcement

Learn how new legislation is shaping the use of automated traffic enforcement across the state. Find out which locations were approved, which were denied, and what it means for drivers and communities

See approved and denied ATE locations

As part of HF 2681 passed during the 2024 legislative session, the Iowa DOT has the authority to approve or deny the use of automated traffic enforcement for speed control on Iowa roads. As a result of the law, all jurisdictions who were using, or wishing to use, automated traffic enforcement on their roads were required to apply for a permit to the Iowa DOT by Jul. 1, 2024. The Iowa DOT received applications for 348 automated traffic enforcement locations from 28 jurisdictions. Jurisdictions who were using automated traffic enforcement on their roads before Jan. 1, 2024, were notified on Sept. 30, 2024 whether they would be allowed to continue to use the equipment on their roads. Of the 348 location applications received, 154 locations were approved and 194 were denied.

Definitions of the terms used in determining status in the Automated Traffic Enforcement law:

  • Least restrictive: All other methods to control speeds at a location have been exhausted or are impractical.
  • Appropriate: Use of an Automated Traffic Enforcement system at a location complies with the law’s requirements and is the right method to control vehicle speeds.
  • Necessary: Critical traffic safety issues exist at a location to the degree where control of vehicle speeds is essential.

State Law in Iowa

The Automated Traffic Enforcement law states that the DOT may approve or deny a permit application based on our determination "that a system is appropriate and necessary and the least restrictive means to address the critical traffic safety issues at a location." The law defines critical traffic safety issues as including two things:

  1. Traffic violations resulting in a traffic collision or accident
  2. Traffic collisions and accidents resulting in serious injury or death

Locations not already using a system prior to Jan. 1, 2024 are currently being reviewed by the DOT and will not be issued a permit before Jul. 1, 2026.

If an existing automated traffic enforcement location was denied the equipment must be turned off on Oct. 1. If a jurisdiction disagrees with the DOT’s decision, they may appeal by submitting a written explanation of the issues and include any supporting information to the Iowa DOT director. The director’s decision is the final agency action.