The primary goal is to protect children in school zones by reducing speeding during school hours. According to studies, even a 5 mph reduction in vehicle speed significantly reduces the likelihood of fatality in pedestrian accidents. These cameras are a tool to promote consistent compliance with school zone speed limits. 

From one hour before school and, one hour after school. All monitored school zones and speeds are clearly marked. 

The Sheriff's Office has placed signage that is clearly visible, warning drivers that the roads are enforced by cameras. Additionally, the sheriff's office has provided a 30-day warning period since the systems were first installed. Enforcement is in the following areas: 

• Tate Elementary School on Hwy 53
• Pickens County JR High School on Refuge Road 
• Hill City Elementary School on Hwy 53
• Harmony Elementary on Harmony School Road 

 Yes. The use of photo speed enforcement in school zones is authorized by Georgia law under O.C.G.A. 40-14-18, which was enacted in 2018. It outlines detailed restrictions on when, where, and how the cameras can be used and ensures due process for vehicle owners. 

 No. The citations are civil, not criminal, and do not result in points on your license or an insurance penalty. The process includes mailed notification, access to image evidence, and the opportunity to contest the citation through a hearing. Owners may also rebut the citation if they were not driving or if the car was stolen. 

The enforcement program utilizes state-of-the-art, multi-dimensional radar that tracks and monitors up to 350 cars simultaneously. Radar is accurate within .1 miles per hour. A detailed maintenance and testing log is maintained at all times. No tickets are issued within possible margin of error. 

No. This is a civil violation and it does not get reported to insurance or the DDS. However, if you fail to contest or pay for your violation it can cause a suspension on your vehicle registration.

The first violation is $80 and $130 for subsequent violations. Payments are due by the "payday" date listed on the citation.  

Yes. Login to https://secure.speedviolation.com and enter your citation number. You will be able to view photos and video of the violation. 

You may mail a check or money order to the address printed on the citation and a pre-printed return envelope. 

For faster credit card payments, you may pay securely online at https://secure.speedviolation.com. Electronic payments post the same day and you can receive a confirmation by e-mail. 

PAYMENT BY PHONE: Call 833-917-7333, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Citations are civil offenses, not criminal infractions. No points are assessed on your driving record for automated enforcement violations. However, fines do escalate for repeat offenders. 

According to state law, paid citation revenue must be utilized for law enforcement activities that will make the communities safer, such as police equipment and new school resource officers. 

Warning Notices are courtesy notices extended by the sheriff's office, in addition to new clearly visible signs, to put drivers on notice of stepped-up enforcement in school zones. If you received a Warning Notice no further action is required. All drivers are encouraged to obey speed laws.