Two automated speed cameras are headed to Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach, following the signing of a new state law designed to target speeding on one of the city’s most dangerous roads. Under Senate Bill 1279, signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, Long Beach will be allowed to add two speed-safety camera systems along PCH beginning Jan. 1, 2027. The highway had previously been excluded from the city’s camera pilot because it is a state route rather than a road controlled by Long Beach.
How the cameras will work
The two PCH cameras will be in addition to the 18 automated speed cameras that Long Beach is already installing elsewhere through California’s speed-camera pilot program. As reported by the Long Beach Post, the city’s broader camera program is scheduled to begin issuing tickets in October. Once the new PCH cameras are installed, they will follow the same rules: drivers clocked at least 11 mph over the posted limit will first receive warnings during a 60-day warning period, before civil penalties can begin.
The cameras are limited to photographing a vehicle’s rear license plate, not the driver or passengers. A first violation for driving 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit results in a warning. After that, penalties are expected to range from $50 for driving 11 to 15 mph above the limit, to $100 for 16 to 25 mph over, $200 for 26 mph or more over and $500 for speeds of 100 mph or higher.
What the new law changes
Long Beach was already one of six California cities authorized to test automated speed enforcement. But the original pilot law did not cover PCH because the roadway is part of the state highway system. SB 1279 changes that by specifically allowing Long Beach to install two systems on its stretch of PCH. The measure takes effect at the start of 2027, although the city has not yet announced the precise locations of the cameras or a firm installation date.
