Rhode Island/Cameras/Main Discussion View history




Based on information researched at the time this page was created, the limited legality of speed cameras in Rhode Island is described below, and red light cameras are legal statewide in Rhode Island.

No other camera types should be mapped in Waze.

Speed camera

Speed cameras

Speed cameras are only allowed in school zones and are only turned on during school hours (7AM - 6PM). However, they are required to post signage warning drivers that they are entering a monitored speed area. As such, these cameras should be mapped in Waze, as it's better to warn drivers of an upcoming camera zone, even if that camera is sometimes turned off.

Speed camera usage is determined at the city level. Currently, the following cities have speed camerasː

  • Providence (15)
  • Pawtucket (9)
  • East Providence (9)
  • Central Falls (3)
"Mobile" speed camera

While speed cameras in most cities are permanent, Providence speed cameras are considered "mobile" and can be relocated. However, they are generally stationary throughout the school year, and the city of Providence notifies the public whenever cameras are to be moved. Thus, RI editors will need to be aware of changes to camera locations, as well as any additions or removals of cameras, by monitoring press releases from city officials.

In these instances, look for the camera itself in Google Street View (see examples) and map according to standard camera mapping guidelines. Note that this requires Google Street View to be up-to-date, so it may be difficult to properly identify new cameras without either updates to GSV or boots on the ground.

Red light camera signage

Red light cameras

Currently, the following cities use red light camerasː

  • Providence (15)
  • Pawtucket (15)
  • East Providence (9)
  • Charlestown (2)

To identify a valid red light camera, be sure to look for a sign near the intersection that says "Traffic Laws Photo Enforced", as shown on the right. As with speed cameras, you may need to either wait until GSV is updated, or have someone manually verify new cameras with photographic evidence before you can map them.