By Jorge Casuso
August 20, 2026 – The City of Malibu this week launched efforts to educate motorists about its new PCH Speed Safety System that uses cameras to catch drivers speeding along Malibu's 21-mile stretch of coastal highway.
The City -- which under State law can operate as many as five automated speed enforcement camera systems with 10 cameras -- will activate the system in late September, when a 60-day warning period will kick in, according to the City's website.
During the warning period, "motorists who exceed the speed threshold will receive warnings only," before the enforcement phase kicks off in late November with speeding violations resulting in citations.
“Our goal is to improve safety for everyone who uses Pacific Coast Highway, whether they are driving, biking, walking, visiting, or commuting through Malibu,” Mayor Bruce Silverstein said in a statement Monday.
The Speed Safety System uses LiDAR, an acronym for “light detection and ranging,” a remote-sensing technology that uses laser beams to measure precise distances and movement in an environment, in real time, according to IMB, which is involved in the development and application of the technology.
The LiDAR technology and advanced camera equipment will be used to detect vehicles traveling at least 11 MPH above the posted speed limit, Malibu officials said.
"When a violation occurs, the system captures an image of the vehicle’s rear license plate and automatically generates a citation for review and processing."
According to Malibu officials, the system will not operate as “surveillance” but "will only begin recording when a speed violation is detected." Data collected will not be shared with other government agencies.
"The program also includes protections to support fairness and due process, including a diversion program for eligible low-income residents, an appeals process, and ongoing public oversight through the City’s adopted use policy."
The speed safety cameras are "intended to encourage safer driving behavior, reduce excessive speeding, and help prevent crashes, injuries, and fatalities," City officials said.
Since 2010, more than 60 people have died in traffic collisions along Malibu’s section of PCH. In 2023 alone, there were 220 reported crashes resulting in 93 injuries and seven deaths.
Four of those deaths took place on October 17, when a speeding driver struck four Pepperdine University students standing along PCH.
The tragedy drove home the "urgent need for action" on a safety issue that had "long been one of the Malibu community’s highest priorities," officials said.
In September 2024, Gov Gavin Newsom signed into law legislation authored by Senator Ben Allen that made the Speed Safety System possible.
“We have seen unimaginable tragedy on Pacific Coast Highway caused by excessive speeding, and we must do everything we can to prevent future loss of life," Mayor Silverstein said.
"This program honors those we have lost, protects those who use this roadway today, and encourages safer driving behaviors that save lives.”