OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – New speed cameras installed in school zones in Osceola County are already clocking drivers going as fast as 70 miles per hour — more than triple the posted limit in some areas.
Osceola County joined the growing list of law enforcement agencies to activate speed cameras in school zones after a new state law took effect in 2023. Other cities include Palm Bay, Eustis, Ocoee, Orlando, St. Cloud, and Mount Dora.
The goal: stop dangerous driving near schools.
“We’ve seen people violate that sometimes as high as 60 or 70 mph, which is outrageous, but we’re seeing that,” said Capt. Kim Montes with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. “We want to deter that behavior, and we’re hoping that with these speed cameras, that behavior will be brought back into check.”
In Osceola County, cameras are operating in the following school zones:
- 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
So far, more than 17,000 tickets have been issued in Osceola County, according to the sheriff’s office.
[VIDEO: Mount Dora joins effort in cracking down on speeding in school zones]
“If you’re speeding 11 or more over the posted speed limit, that camera will capture your vehicle with your tag and you’ll be issued a civil infraction, which is $98,” Montes said.
Under a new state law, the cameras can operate up to 30 minutes before school starts, during school hours, and up to 30 minutes after dismissal. Each ticket is reviewed by deputies to confirm flashing lights were active, signs were visible, and the vehicle matches the license plate.
“No points are assessed on this. It doesn’t affect your driving record. Your insurance doesn’t go up,” Montes explained. “But more importantly, we’re hoping that those people who violate this law won’t do it again.”
When asked about criticism that the program is more about money than safety, Montes responded directly: “We think it’s cheaper than a funeral for a child.”
With the first day of school approaching, Montes is urging drivers to change their habits now.
“I think everyone has to remember that on Aug. 11, we have to change our driving behavior,” she stressed. “Get used to the school year and remember that around schools you have to be vigilant.”