What is the Red-Light Photo Enforcement Program?
It is a traffic safety program designed to reduce red-light running and help prevent serious crashes at a targeted intersection. The program uses red-light camera technology to encourage drivers to stop at red lights.
Why is the City of Winchester doing this now?
Running red lights is dangerous and can lead to severe crashes. This program is intended to improve compliance and help reduce risky driving behavior at a location selected for enforcement.
Which location is included in this launch?
The program will launch at the intersection of E Jubal Early Dr and S Pleasant Valley Rd.
When does the program begin?
The warning period begins on June 8, 2026, and lasts 30 days.
What happens during the warning period?
During the warning period, drivers who run a red light may receive a warning notice. The goal is education and awareness so that drivers can adjust their behavior.
When do citations begin, and what is the fine?
Citations may begin after the 30-day warning period ends. The civil penalty is $50 for qualifying violations. There are no additional fees.
What is the threshold for a warning or citation?
A warning or citation may be issued when a vehicle is recorded entering the intersection against a red traffic signal, consistent with program rules. The system captures evidence for review before any notice is issued.
Is this program active all day?
Yes. The program operates 24/7.
How does this help safety?
Red-light running increases the risk of dangerous angle crashes. Improving compliance helps reduce the likelihood of serious collisions and supports safer travel through the intersection.
Why use cameras instead of officers?
Officers remain essential to traffic safety, but they cannot be at every intersection at all times. Cameras provide consistent deterrence while allowing officers to focus on broader public safety needs.
Is this a revenue program?
No. This is a safety program focused on behavior change. It starts with warnings to educate drivers. The best outcome is fewer violations, as more drivers stop at red lights.
How will drivers know where the camera is?
The location is being shared publicly. This launch includes E Jubal Early Dr and S Pleasant Valley Rd.
What should drivers do to avoid a warning or citation?
Come to a complete stop at red lights, do not enter the intersection on red, and drive attentively through the intersection.
How are right turns on red handled?
Virginia law requires all vehicles to stop at a red light. Right turns on red are permitted unless otherwise posted. The camera will capture right-turn violations by vehicles that fail to come to a full stop. The sensors will detect violations in the monitored right-turn lanes and activate the photo enforcement system.
Will I get negative driver points?
No points will be assessed for the violation, and it will not appear on your driving record.
Who determines whether or not a violation has occurred?
All violations are reviewed and accepted or rejected by a sworn police officer.
What local and state laws allow red-light cameras in Winchester?
Virginia State Code 15.2-968.1 and Code of the City of Winchester Ordinance No. 14-16 authorize the use of red-light photo monitoring systems.
What happens when the camera captures a City of Winchester vehicle?
Traffic summonses, and traffic, red light photo, school bus camera, or speed zone camera citations issued while operating a City vehicle shall be investigated by the employee's department. Notification of verified camera citations will be sent to the appropriate department head by the Chief of Police or their designee. Employees who receive a traffic citation while operating a City vehicle shall be financially responsible for all costs, fines, and penalties.
How do I review the violation and pay the penalty?
You will be provided with a still photograph of your vehicle on the printed violation notice. You can review the red light violation online at www.onlinecitationpayment.com. You can access your violation by entering your citation# and PIN. Photo and video evidence are available for review. The owner/driver can arrange to meet with a Winchester Police Officer to review the evidence and discuss the red-light running violation. Lastly, the vehicle owner/driver can request a court date for the evidence to be heard in the Winchester General District Court. Payment can be made online, by mail, or by phone at (866) 271-1171 from 8 a.m. To 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
How do I contact a local officer with questions?
You can email a Winchester Police Officer at traffic.cameras@winchesterva.gov