If you recently received a camera ticket in the mail, you might be wondering if it still counts. Ontario’s new decision to remove speed cameras within two weeks has created plenty of confusion — and maybe a bit of cautious optimism for drivers.

The big question is: Are those photo radar fines still legitimate?

Let’s break it down.

The Province Hits the Brakes on Speed Cameras

The Ontario government has ordered municipalities to remove their automated speed enforcement (ASE) cameras. The reason? Officials claim the system has turned into more of a money-maker than a safety initiative.

That means cities like Toronto, Hamilton, and Mississauga — all of which invested in these systems — are now being told to shut them down. But before you think this gives you a free pass, hold tight.

Your Ticket Might Still Be Valid

Even though the cameras are coming down, tickets issued while the program was legally in effect are still valid — at least for now. There’s no sign of retroactive cancellation, and the government hasn’t announced refunds or mass dismissals.

In short:

If your camera ticket was issued before the cameras were officially deactivated, you’re still on the hook unless a court or legislative change says otherwise.

What If Your Ticket Came After the Ban?

Here’s where things get interesting

If a ticket was issued after the removal order took effect, there may be grounds to challenge it. For instance:

Was the camera still operational when it shouldn’t have been?

Was the zone improperly designated?

Was the ticket processed under an expired regulation?

Any of these could be potential arguments in your favour.

How to Protect Yourself

If you’ve received a recent camera ticket:

1. Check the date of the violation.

2. Confirm if the camera was still legally active when it snapped your plate.

3. Talk to a licensed paralegal — like MTS Paralegal Services — before paying.

At MTS Paralegal Services, we help drivers determine whether their ticket is valid and whether it’s worth fighting. During this uncertain period, it’s more important than ever to understand your rights.

The Bottom Line

Until Ontario clarifies how these changes affect enforcement, we’re in a legal grey zone. For now, assume that your ticket still stands — but don’t pay it blindly. You might have options.

If you’ve received a speed camera ticket, reach out to MTS Paralegal Services. We’ll review your case, check if your ticket is enforceable, and help you take the next step — because sometimes the system needs a little speed check of its own.