Drivers who park in bus lanes and bus stops on some city streets can now expect a nearly $300 ticket.
The effort is part of the Bus Lane Enforcement Program, a collaboration between the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) and Metro. The program aims to improve transit efficiency and reduce traffic congestion.
“Without enforcement, a single parked car in a bus lane can delay dozens or even hundreds of rides,” said Metro Board Chair and L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “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 program started in November with a 60-day warning period for those parked in bus lanes and bus stops on Metro Line 212 along La Brea Boulevard and Line 720 on Wilshire Boulevard. During that phase, those who were in violation received a warning notice by mail.
As of Monday, LADOT began issuing $293 tickets.
How does it work?
As part of the program, 50 cameras were installed on select buses along lines 720 and 212 to capture violations. Each bus received two cameras – one uses AI to detect blocking the roadway and traffic lane lines, while the second records the license plate of the vehicle in violation.
A traffic officer then reviews the evidence with LADOT to ensure accuracy before issuing a ticket. These tickets include details including the time and location of the violation and any visual evidence captured.
Enforced routes are coming to the Eastside
The program is expected to expand into other areas of the city later this year, with an additional 50 cameras installed on select buses. That includes areas along Metro Bus Line 70 and Metro J Silver Line 910/950 routes, which both have stops in Boyle Heights and East Los Angeles.
A 60-day warning period for these areas begins on March 3, 2025.