MBTA begins automated camera enforcement for bus lanes

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) is launching an Automated Camera Enforcement program to monitor bus stops and bus lanes. The rollout begins on October 1, 2026, with an initial educational period. During this phase, motor vehicles parked in bus stops or bus lanes will receive advisory notices rather than fines.

Full enforcement, including the issuance of fines, is scheduled to begin on January 1, 2027. For bus lane violations, first-time offenders will receive a warning, while subsequent violations will result in fines ranging from $25 to $125. Violations involving parking in bus stops will result in fines starting from the first offense. Drivers have 60 days to appeal a citation.

The program will initially focus on the Silver Line SL4 and SL5 routes in Boston, with plans for a system-wide expansion to other routes, including those in Revere. The initiative, authorized by a January 2025 change in state law, aims to improve transit safety, accessibility, and reliability by ensuring buses can safely pull to the curb for level boarding.