Due to limited resources many states use speed enforcement cameras—also known as photo or video enforcement—to take a digital photograph or video of a vehicle (and its license plate) that violates the speed limit. The use of speed enforcement cameras to issue speeding 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 speed enforcement 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).

To measure the speed of a moving vehicle and issue speeding tickets by photo enforcement, police departments generally use photo or video radar that relies on radio signals and the Doppler Effect or photo and video LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology that relies on lasers rather than radio waves. These devices require training on their proper use and regular calibration to be accurate.

In Ohio, the use of speed enforcement cameras, also known as traffic cameras, is permitted under state law, but with certain restrictions. Ohio Revised Code Section 4511.093 and related statutes regulate the use of these devices. Municipalities in Ohio can use speed cameras to enforce speed limits, but the law requires that a full-time law enforcement officer be present at the location of the camera when the violation occurs. Additionally, Ohio law mandates that signs be posted to inform drivers that speed cameras are in use. The use of these cameras has been subject to legal challenges, and the Ohio Supreme Court has upheld their use as long as the local ordinances do not conflict with state law. It is important to note that the specifics of how these cameras are used can vary by municipality, and some cities may have additional regulations or restrictions. Drivers who receive citations from speed enforcement cameras have the right to contest the ticket, and the issuing authority must provide evidence that the device was properly calibrated and operated by a trained officer.