FARGO, N.D. (KFGO) – If you’re pulled over speeding in Fargo, it looks like it will cost you more. North Dakota is known for having among the lowest fines in the country. But a law approved by the 2019 legislature now allows cities to raise fines twice the amount now allowed. Most such fines in Fargo are now at around $20, but go up according to miles per hour over the speed limit.
Police Chief Dave Todd has been working with the city attorney’s office on an ordinance to bump up those speeding fines at the request of Mayor Tim Mahoney. The proposal will go before city commissioners Monday night.
He says Fargo is one of the last large cities in the state to adopt the increased fines. The last time Fargo fines were adjusted dates back to the early 1970’s.
If city commissioners approve the plan, there will still be a public hearing before the ordinance is finalized.
Chief Todd says the proposed increased fines are still significantly less than in Minnesota and South Dakota. He says it’s not about the money the fines collect, but hopefully, will act as a deterrent to those with a heavy foot on the gas pedal.