Frequently Asked Questions

A vehicle, registered or leased to you, was photographed by an automatic camera connected to a traffic signal, that is only active when the light is red (not yellow or green). Vehicles crossing the stop bar after the light turns red are detected automatically and two photographs are taken. Superimposed on each photograph is the date, time, location and time into the red signal when the violation occurred. An example of the superimposed data bar appears on the program page.

Yes, you may request to appear in District Court by completing the Request a Court Date form on the rear of your citation. The Request for Court Date form must be received at least 5 days prior to the “Due Date” shown on the front of your citation and be mailed to the Westminster Police Department, 36 Locust Street. If you appear in court, the maximum amount you can be charged is a $100 fine and court costs. You will be notified by mail of the court date. If you do not receive a notice within 30 days, call the Westminster Police Department at 410-848-1638.

The initial fine is $75. You have 3 options to pay the fine. You may pay your red light camera citation online. Major credit cards are accepted. There is a small convenience fee for the online payment service. You may also mail a check for the amount due, along with a form included with the citation, to:
Westminster Police Department
Automated Enforcement Program
P.O. Box 742503
Cincinnati, OH 45274-250

You may also go in person and pay at:
Westminster Police Department
36 Locust St.
Westminster, MD 21157

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If the citizen contests the citation in court and is found guilty, the judge has the authority to impose a fine anywhere between $0 and $100 + $22.50 for court costs. Maximum potential liability for standing trial would be $122.50. Failure to pay the penalty or to contest the citation in court may result in the refusal or suspension of the vehicle registration. The vehicle’s registered owner is then liable for the motor vehicle flagging fee and monthly administrative handling fee.

No. This citation is not considered a "moving violation." It is a civil citation holding the registered owner or lessee responsible for the violation (similar to a parking ticket). No points can be assessed for this violation and it will not raise your insurance rates!

Both the District Court and the Police Department will make any reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. Requests should be directed to the appropriate agency prior to visiting the facility.

Westminster Police Department
Ph: 410-848-4646

Carroll County District Court
101 N. Court St.
Westminster, MD 21157

Ph: 410-871-3500
Maryland Relay 711
Toll Free (In-State Only): 800-943-9396