Running a red light is illegal in all states and a ticket or citation for the infraction or offense may lead to a significant fine, demerit points on a driver’s license or driving record, and increased insurance premiums (upon conviction, guilty plea, or plea of no contest).

Due to limited resources many states use automated red-light cameras—also known as photo enforcement—to take a digital photograph of a vehicle (and its license plate) that violates the red light or traffic signal by entering the intersection and failing to stop after the light has turned red. The use of red-light cameras to issue traffic tickets or citations (mailed to the driver) has been controversial, with claims that it violates Constitutional rights.

Laws vary from state to state and in some states red-light cameras are a permitted enforcement tool; in some states they are prohibited; and in some states they are prohibited unless permitted by a local ordinance (city or town).

In Vermont, running a red light is considered a traffic violation and is illegal under state law. Violators can face fines, points on their driving record, and potentially higher insurance rates. Vermont does not currently use automated red-light cameras for traffic enforcement. The state has not authorized the use of these devices, and there is no legislation in place that allows cities or towns within Vermont to implement red-light cameras. Therefore, all traffic enforcement related to red-light violations is conducted by law enforcement officers who must witness the offense. The controversy surrounding red-light cameras, including concerns about constitutional rights, is not applicable in Vermont since the state does not employ this method of enforcement.