At MIT

Speed cameras: decree signed on the approval and regulation of the devices

The decree comes at the end of a long period of controversy over speed cameras. In recent years, a number of court rulings have called into question the validity of fines issued by devices that lack clear ministerial approval

by Rome Editorial Staff

9 June 2026

2' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

Key points

2' min read

Translated by AI

Versione italiana

The Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini, has signed the new decree on speed cameras, which comprehensively regulates the procedures for the approval, inspection and calibration of devices used to detect speeding offences. The aim is to resolve the numerous regulatory and enforcement uncertainties that have fuelled widespread disputes between motorists and local authorities in recent years.

A ‘clear and consistent’ picture

According to the Ministry, the measure introduces a ‘clear and consistent’ regulatory framework capable of ensuring the reliability of measurements, the traceability of technical checks and the legal validity of fines issued via speed enforcement devices.

Controversies and appeals

The decree comes at the end of a long period of controversy surrounding speed cameras. In recent years, a number of court rulings have called into question the validity of fines issued by devices lacking clear ministerial approval. In particular, a series of judicial rulings has highlighted the difference between the simple process of technical approval and the full type-approval required by law, paving the way for thousands of appeals by motorists.

The result was a situation characterised by considerable uncertainty: on the one hand, local authorities continued to use devices deemed essential for road safety; on the other, many members of the public contested the legitimacy of the enforcement actions, arguing that some of the devices did not fully comply with the legal requirements.

“Avoid raising funds at the expense of the public”

With the new decree, the government is therefore aiming to standardise procedures and establish clear technical standards for all equipment used throughout the country. This move, according to the MIT, should reduce litigation and strengthen the validity of penalties.

On the political front, the issue of speed cameras has long been at the centre of debate. Salvini has repeatedly criticised the use of devices installed at locations considered to be relatively safe, accusing some local authorities of using speed checks as a means of boosting revenue from fines. It is no coincidence that, in commenting on the measure, the Ministry reiterated that the primary objective remains ‘ensuring maximum safety on the roads’, whilst ensuring that checks do not become a means of ‘raising money at the expense of citizens’.