Drivers who speed through school zones in Tampa could soon be caught on camera.

Beginning August 11, the City of Tampa will activate speed enforcement cameras at 10 schools as part of a new initiative to enhance student safety.

During the first month of the program, violators will only receive warning notices. But starting September 10, drivers clocked going 10 mph or more over the posted school zone limit will face $100 fines.

The Tampa Police Department said the cameras will only operate during specific school hours — 30 minutes before and after school, during regular class times, and around school breakfast programs. A two-minute grace period will be built into each window, and enforcement will be paused on holidays and when school is not in session.

All violations will be reviewed by a Tampa Police officer before a citation is issued.

“When drivers ignore speed limits in school zones, they put lives at risk,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “This program is one more way we’re working to hold people accountable and make Tampa safer, together.”

The initial camera locations were selected based on a school transportation safety study that evaluated crash data, traffic volume, and student population.

The 10 schools included in the first phase are:

• Alexander Elementary
• B.T. Washington Elementary
• Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy
• Orange Grove Middle Magnet
• Potter Elementary
• Shaw Elementary
• Sulphur Springs Elementary
• Tampa Bay Boulevard Elementary
• Young Middle Magnet
• Lomax Elementary

Additional schools, including Shore and West Tampa elementary schools, are expected to be added in future phases.

To provide more information, Tampa Police will host a Back-to-School Town Hall on Monday, July 15, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Ragan Park. Topics will include the new school zone enforcement program, digital safety, and social media trends affecting students.

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