In September 2025, a pilot project for school bus stop-arm cameras was started.
The pilot issues tickets to the registered owner of a vehicle that illegally passes a school bus while students are boarding or exiting.
It is illegal to pass a stopped school bus with its stop arm extended and red lights flashing. Fines range from $500 to $1,200 dollars.
Six buses are equipped with cameras in Corner Brook, Gander, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador West, Marystown and Paradise. The pilot runs until December 2026.
How does the school bus stop-arm camera work?
Stop-arm cameras automatically record vehicles that pass a stopped school bus illegally. Cameras activate when the stop-arm is extended and red lights are flashing. If a vehicle passes, video is recorded, including the license plate. A traffic compliance officer reviews each incident. If a violation is confirmed, the registered vehicle owner receives a ticket and traffic notice. Ticket recipients can view video evidence and next steps online.
Why do a pilot project?
The pilot will allow the province to assess whether cameras reduce illegal passing and improve student safety. It also allows the province the ability to evaluate technology performance, including license plate recognition and reliability based on local weather conditions, as well as operational issues, such as installation, connectivity, data management, and coordination.
Why not just use the police?
Cameras complement enforcement by providing clear, time-stamped evidence of violations, identifying high-risk locations to inform enforcement, education, and traffic safety measures, and allowing bus drivers to focus on student safety instead of recording license plates. Their presence encourages safer driving behaviour.
What data is captured by the cameras?
Cameras capture high-resolution video of violations, including licence plates, and the date, time, and GPS location. Faces are blurred to protect privacy.
Who gets the ticket?
Under the Highway Traffic Act, the registered vehicle owner of the vehicle gets the ticket, even if they were not driving.
Will demerit points be issued?
No. Demerit points apply only to drivers, and cameras cannot confirm who was driving.
What happens if the vehicle is a rental vehicle?
Tickets are issued to the rental agency, which charges the renter on file.
Where do I get information about my ticket?
Tickets are sent by registered mail. To view details, including video evidence, go online or scan the QR code on your traffic notice. Enter your ticket number and license plate.
How do I pay the ticket?
- Online: MyGovNL.ca
- In Person: Fines Administration, 50 Elizabeth Avenue, St. John’s
- In Person, Any Provincial Court
- Phone: 709-729-0424
How do I contest the ticket?
- Online: DriveSmartNL.ca
- In Person: Complete the back of the ticket and drop off at any Provincial Court
- Mail: Complete the back of the ticket and mail it to any Provincial Court
When must the ticket be paid?
Pay by the due date listed on the ticket to avoid late fees. If no action is taken, a conviction will be entered.
Are the cameras about making money?
No. The purpose is to improve safety by deterring illegal passing and protecting students.