Toronto Raises Fines for Blocking Intersections by 400%

The City of Toronto is increasing fines for drivers who block intersections when the traffic lights change, which is referred to as “blocking the box.”

Fines for improper stops in an intersection will see a 400 percent increase from $90 to $450 for most streets. Stopping in an area marked as a “community safety zone” in Toronto will now cost 317 percent more, going up from $120 to $500.

“Blocking the Box poses a serious safety risk to vulnerable road users and disrupts traffic flow,” Mayor Chow emphasized. “This increase in fines underscores our commitment to ensuring that Toronto’s streets are safe for pedestrians, cyclists, and to reduce congestion that affects all road users.”

The city defined ‘blocking the box’ as when drivers enter an intersection on a green or yellow light without the possibility of making a turn before the light turns red.

McKelvie pointed out that the increased fines will prompt drivers to carefully consider their routes when making turns.

Related Stories

“Increasing the fine will prompt drivers to think twice before entering an intersection without a clear path through, facilitating all road users to reach their destinations swiftly and safely,” she mentioned in the news release.

To implement these changes, the city required approval from the provincial government since fines are determined under the Provincial Offences Act.

Additionally, the city has already installed new signs at several downtown intersections urging drivers not to ‘block the box.’

Toronto Police Service will play a role in enforcing the program. The Toronto city council will receive an update on this matter in October, according to the news release.

The city is also exploring technological solutions for enforcement, such as the use of cameras. However, it clarified that obtaining provincial approval would be necessary to implement these modifications.