Swiss Canton Aargau Cracks Down on Fixed Speed Cameras After Public Vote
Aargau has become the only Swiss canton to impose strict limits on fixed speed cameras. The move follows a public vote in favour of the Stop Speed Trap Profiteering initiative, which won 56% support. Under the new rules, permanently installed cameras now face heavy restrictions.
The decision has sparked debate over the future of the canton's sole remaining fixed camera in Baden, located at the Gstühl intersection.
The initiative forces Aargau's government to regulate fixed radar installations more tightly. Any new permanent camera will require official approval under strict conditions. Semi-permanent units, however, can stay in one spot for no more than 72 hours.
Supporters insist the Baden camera must be dismantled, calling it illegal under the new law. Opponents counter that it was installed before the rule change and should remain. The final say lies with Dieter Egli, Aargau's director of police and security.
Baden's mayor, Markus Schneider, has pledged to keep the camera operating until the end of the year. After that, he plans to apply for a permit once the canton drafts its new ordinance. The government is currently preparing this regulation to outline the approval process for future fixed cameras.
While no specific legal steps for Baden's camera have been confirmed, similar cases in German towns suggest updates to police ordinances may be required. These changes typically need unanimous council approval before taking effect.
The new restrictions leave Aargau as the only Swiss canton with such tight controls on fixed speed cameras. Baden's single remaining device now faces an uncertain future, pending a decision by the authorities. The government's forthcoming ordinance will determine whether any permanent cameras can legally operate beyond 2027.
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