The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), in collaboration with the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT), has begun issuing fines under its bus lane enforcement initiative.
The scheme, originally introduced on 1 November 2024, aims to improve public transport efficiency and ease congestion on key routes. It has now begun issuing fines to violators from 17 February.
The enforcement programme applies to major corridors where dedicated bus lanes are in operation, including routes 720 along Wilshire Boulevard and 212 along La Brea Avenue. These areas have been identified as high-priority locations due to their significant levels of bus ridership and frequent traffic congestion.
During the preliminary 60-day phase, which took place between December and January, motorists who parked illegally in designated bus lanes received warning notices. From 17 February onwards, those found in violation will face penalties starting at 293 USD.
Stephanie Wiggins, CEO of LA Metro said:Every Metro bus carries someone’s mother, grandfather, or child, all of whom are trying to get to their destination, so they can spend time with those most important to them. Our bus riders deserve to have a reliable, safe, and on-time ride. That’s why we’ve partnered with LADOT to install bus lanes on Wilshire Blvd. and La Brea Blvd. – to give all our riders a better, faster, and more consistent ride – however, since they’ve been installed, service is delayed due to vehicles blocking the lanes and that’s why we’re pleased that enforcement is going to begin to prevent misuse of the bus lanes.
The policy is designed to keep bus lanes clear, reducing delays and ensuring more consistent journey times for passengers.
Metro Board Chair and LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn said:Without enforcement, a single parked car in a bus lane can delay dozens or even hundreds of riders. So, this is not just about issuing tickets, it’s about making sure our Metro buses run on schedule and get our riders to their destinations on time.
The automated enforcement system uses cameras mounted on selected buses. One camera detects vehicles in bus lanes using computer vision technology, while a second captures the number plates of offending vehicles. Before a fine is issued, a traffic officer from LADOT will review the footage to verify the violation.
LADOT General Manager Laura Rubio-Cornejo said:Every day thousands of Angelenos depend on public transit to get to their jobs, schools, healthcare, and other critical destinations. This new program will help the city realize the service reliability and efficiency benefits of its dedicated bus lanes as we continue to partner with Metro to improve bus service across our transportation system.
In the next phase of the programme, Metro will install 50 additional enforcement cameras on buses operating along routes 910 and 950, which serve the J Line, as well as route 70 on Olive Street and Grand Avenue. The warning period for these areas is set to begin on 3 March, with fines to follow after 60 days.
The automated enforcement initiative aligns with Metro’s NextGen Bus Plan, which seeks to enhance the reliability, speed, and safety of public transport services. By ensuring compliance with bus lane regulations, the scheme aims to maximise the benefits of newly implemented infrastructure and improve the overall experience for public transport users.
