Paris ring road speed camera controversy

Motorists on the Paris ring road (périphérique) have expressed significant frustration following the activation of a speed camera near Porte de Montreuil on August 24, 2026. The device enforces a 30 km/h limit within a construction zone created for an urban transformation project intended to expand green spaces.

Drivers and advocacy groups, such as ‘40 millions d'automobilistes’, have criticized the measure, labeling it a “trap” and a “money pump.” Critics argue the camera is partially obscured by metal fencing and railings, making the sudden speed reduction difficult to notice. There are also concerns that the enforcement will worsen traffic congestion, particularly following a general speed limit reduction to 50 km/h in October 2024.

In defense of the installation, Sophy Sainten of the association Prévention routière stated that the device serves as a preventive tool, noting that 29% of road accidents are linked to excessive or inappropriate speed. She emphasized that the altered driving conditions in the work zone necessitate stricter enforcement.

On September 4, 2026, authorities announced that fines issued by the temporary camera would be canceled due to ‘technical difficulties’ that caused the device to operate intermittently and unreliably. This followed reports of 18 flashes in less than five minutes, reinforcing claims by ‘40 Millions d'Automobilistes’ that the device acted as a ‘cash machine’.

By September 7, 2026, the Paris Police Prefecture announced the removal of the camera. The cancellation of all issued fines was further supported by legal intervention from the Rennes Prosecutor's Office to ensure equality among road users. While the 30 km/h limit remains, the removal follows concerns that the device could have theoretically generated massive revenue, with the association estimating potential annual fines of approximately 274 million euros.