On Friday evening, August 22, 2025, the Laguna Beach Police Department’s Traffic Bureau conducted a focused traffic enforcement operation in response to ongoing community concerns regarding speeding, loud vehicles, and roadway safety during evening hours.
The operation resulted in 61 citations for violations including speeding, modified or excessively loud exhaust systems, illegal cell phone use, seatbelt violations, and pedestrian-related offenses. Two men were cited for racing, and their vehicles were impounded for 30 days. In one instance, officers stopped a motorcycle traveling 123 mph on SR-133 (Laguna Canyon Road).
“These violations aren’t just technicalities, they directly threaten public safety and quality of life,” said Sergeant Spratt of the Traffic Bureau. “Speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time, making crashes more likely and more severe. Loud exhaust systems disrupt neighborhood peace, and cause quality of life issues for our residents.”
Spratt noted that seatbelt compliance continues to be a safety priority for the City of Laguna Beach. “Seatbelts save lives, and that message cannot be overstated.” Spratt further stressed the importance of pedestrian safety, citing the city’s high volume of foot traffic and numerous crosswalks. “Driver attentiveness is essential to ensuring the safety of both motorists and pedestrians in our community.”
In light of the volume and severity of violations observed, the Police Department will expand evening traffic enforcement throughout the summer and fall. These proactive measures reflect the City’s commitment to keeping Laguna Beach safe for all drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
For more information on traffic safety initiatives, or to report unsafe driving behavior, please contact the Laguna Beach Police Department’s non-emergency line.
Here’s a plain-text summary of the penalties for the traffic violations cited during the Laguna Beach enforcement operation on August 22, 2025:
Speeding
- 1–15 mph over limit: Base fine of $35 (total cost with fees: approx. $238)
- 16–25 mph over limit: Base fine of $70 (total cost: approx. $367)
- 26+ mph over limit: Base fine of $100 (total cost: over $490)
- Over 100 mph:
- First offense: Up to $500 fine and 30-day license suspension
- Second offense (within 3 years): Up to $750 fine and 6-month suspension
- Third offense (within 5 years): Up to $1,000 fine and 1-year suspension
Racing
- Considered reckless driving, which may include:
- Vehicle impoundment
- Court appearance
- Jail time (5 to 90 days)
- Fines from $145 to $1,000
- Points on driving record
Modified or Loud Exhaust Systems
- California law limits exhaust noise to 95 decibels, but Laguna Beach enforces a stricter 80-decibel limit
- First offense: Usually a “fix-it” ticket (must correct and show proof)
- If not corrected: Fine around $188
- Repeat or serious violations: Higher fines or mandatory court appearance
- Emissions violations: Fines up to $5,000 per violation if illegal modifications affect emissions
Illegal Cell Phone Use
- Fine starts around $20 for a first offense, but total cost with fees can exceed $150
- Repeat offenses lead to higher fines and points on your record
Seatbelt Violations
- Base fine around $20, but total cost with fees can exceed $150
- May add points to your driving record, affecting insurance rates
Pedestrian-Related Offenses
- Fines vary depending on the specific violation (e.g., failing to yield at a crosswalk)
- Typically range from $100 to $250, plus possible points on your record