Chicago city vehicles are on the hunt for illegally-parked cars

Cameras on the vehicles can automatically issue tickets to drivers who park their cars in bus or bike lanes.

1 minute read

October 17, 2026, 5:00 AM PDT

By Zachary Whalen


People in Chicago cross the street. There are two CTA buses in the background.

While the program does not create any new fines, the city expects it will bring in $6.1 million in 2027. | Tupungato

If you’re blocking a bus or bike lane in Chicago, cameras attached to passing city vehicles may flag the violation and fine you without the operator lifting a finger. Launched in 2024 as a pilot program, the Chicago City Council has decided to expand the initiative citywide and make its presence in Chicago permanent. 

“Since 2024, the program has garnered more than 140,000 citations, though 75 percent of those were warnings for a first-time infraction that carries no penalty, according to data shared last month by city officials. More than 80 percent of drivers who got warnings had not received additional violations since then, officials said at the time,” Quinn Myers writes for Block Club Chicago. 

Fines for ticketed drivers range from $50 to $250. While the program does not create any new fines, the city expects it will bring in $6.1 million in 2027. Since 2024, the program has already brought in $2.5 million. 

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 in Block Club Chicago

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