Automated Speed Enforcement Program Launches in Ruidoso
June 22, 2026 (Ruidoso, NM) — The Village of Ruidoso is preparing to launch an Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) Program designed to improve roadway safety and encourage compliance with posted speed limits in areas where speeding poses risks to residents, visitors, and schoolchildren.
The Village expects to begin a 30-day warning period for the Automated Speed Enforcement Program within the next seven days. During this initial phase, drivers traveling 11 mph or more above the posted speed limit may receive warning notices by mail, but no fines will be issued. The warning period is intended to provide education and awareness before citations begin.
Following the warning period, automated enforcement will become active. The Village will announce the official warning-period start date and enforcement date once they are finalized.
Why the Program Is Being Implemented
According to speed studies conducted across multiple locations in Ruidoso, nearly 10,000 vehicles were recorded traveling at or above the violation threshold in just two days. Village officials say the program is intended to help reduce dangerous speeding behaviors and improve safety for motorists, pedestrians, and schoolchildren.
The Village is taking an education-first approach by beginning with warnings rather than citations.
Where Enforcement Will Occur
Automated speed enforcement cameras are located along:
* White Mountain Drive
* Mechem Drive (south of Alpine Village)
* Sudderth Drive
* Junction Road
* Paradise Canyon Drive
* US 70 (north of Dunagan Trail)
Warning signs are posted in advance of every camera location to alert drivers that they are entering an area monitored by automated speed enforcement.
How the Program Works
The cameras measure vehicle speeds and capture photographs and video when a vehicle exceeds the enforcement threshold. Information, including the vehicle’s speed, location, date, time, and license plate, is recorded. A citation may then be issued to the registered vehicle owner.
All potential violations are reviewed and verified by a Ruidoso Police Officer before a citation is mailed. Citations are not issued automatically.
Citation Information
Once enforcement begins:
* Citations are issued only for vehicles traveling 11 mph or more over the posted speed limit.
* The citation amount is $100, as established by state law.
* No points are assessed against a driver’s license.
* Violations do not appear on a driver’s driving record.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the speed cameras work?
Automated speed cameras measure the speed of passing vehicles and capture images and video of vehicles traveling at or above the enforcement threshold. Citations include photographs, recorded speed, and other violation details.
How will drivers know they are entering a speed camera zone?
Warning signs are posted before each automated speed enforcement location to alert drivers that they are entering an area monitored by speed cameras.
Where are the cameras located?
Current camera locations include:
White Mountain Drive
Mechem Drive (south of Alpine Village)
Sudderth Drive
Junction Road
Paradise Canyon Drive
U.S. 70 (north of Dunagan Trail)
When are the cameras enforcing?
Speed cameras operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays.
School zone cameras follow schedules aligned with school hours.
What is the fine for a speeding violation?
The fine for a speed camera violation is $100.
Will I receive points on my driving record?
No. Automated Speed Enforcement citations are zero-point traffic infractions and are not reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Does anyone review citations before they are issued?
Yes. In addition to review by the automated enforcement contractor, each citation is verified and approved by a Ruidoso Police Officer before it is mailed.
Can a citation be contested?
Yes. Registered vehicle owners have 45 days from the date of issuance to request a hearing and contest a citation. Instructions for requesting a hearing are included with the citation notice.
Can I view images of the violation online?
Yes. Citation notices include instructions for accessing still images and recorded speed information through a secure website.
How can a citation be paid?
Citations may be paid online, by phone, or by mail. Payment instructions are included with each citation notice.
