Speed Camera Van “Loopholes”: Can They Hide & Do They Need Signs? (2026)

You are driving down a country lane. You come around a corner, and there it is. A white van with high-vis markings (or sometimes plain navy blue) parked on the verge. A small window is open at the back. You check your speedometer. You were doing 36mph in a 30. Panic sets in.

Immediately, drivers start searching for “loopholes.” “They didn’t have a warning sign!” “They were hiding behind a bush!” “It’s illegal to park on that grass verge!”

The internet is full of “pub advice” about how to beat a mobile speed camera ticket. Unfortunately, most of it is wrong. Here is the truth about Speed Camera Van rules in 2026—what they can do, what they can’t do, and the one thing that might actually save you.

Myth 1: “They Must Put Out Warning Signs”

Verdict: FALSE

Many drivers believe that if there are no “Camera enforcement” signs, the ticket is invalid. This used to be a guideline to ensure “fair play,” but it was never the law. The Rule: The speed limit is the law. As long as the speed limit signs (e.g., the “30” circle) are legal and visible, the police can enforce it anywhere, anytime, without warning.

Myth 2: “They Are Not Allowed to Hide”

Verdict: FALSE

You often hear people say: “It’s entrapment if they hide behind a tree/bridge/wall.” The Rule: Police vans can park wherever they like (as long as it’s safe). They do not have to be visible to you until it is too late. In fact, many forces argue that hiding makes the cameras more effective because it stops people slowing down just for the camera and speeding up afterwards (“kangarooing”).

Myth 3: “They Can’t Catch Me From the Other Side of the Road”

Verdict: FALSE

Modern mobile cameras (often laser-based LTI 20.20 guns) have a range of up to 1,000 metres (over half a mile).

• They can catch you approaching them.

• They can catch you driving away from them.

• They can catch you from the opposite lane (cross-border enforcement). If you see the van, they likely saw you 10 seconds ago.

The “10% + 2mph” Rule (Is It Real?)

This is the most common question we get: “I was doing 34mph in a 30. Will I get a ticket?”

The Guidance: Most Police forces follow the NPCC (National Police Chiefs’ Council) guidelines, which suggest a threshold of 10% + 2mph before issuing a ticket.

• 30mph Zone: Ticket starts at 35mph (30 + 3 + 2).

• 70mph Zone: Ticket starts at 79mph (70 + 7 + 2).

The Catch: This is guidance, not law. A police officer can technically ticket you for doing 31mph in a 30 (though it is rare). Do not treat the “10% + 2” rule as a rigid speed limit.

The “Real” Loophole: The 14-Day Rule

If you were caught by a van, forget about arguing about “bushes” or “signs.” You will lose. Your only genuine chance of challenging the ticket lies in the paperwork.

By law, the police must send the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP) so that it arrives at the registered keeper’s address within 14 days of the offence.

• If it arrives on Day 15 or later (and you haven’t moved house recently), the ticket could be invalid.

• Read our full guide on the 14-Day Loophole here to check if you are exempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a speed camera van ticket to arrive?

The police have 14 days to issue the Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP). In practice, most people receive it within 5 to 7 days. If you haven’t heard anything after 14 days (excluding weekends/bank holidays), you are usually safe.

Can they operate at night?

Yes. Modern vans use infrared technology to read number plates in the dark. The old rule that “they need daylight” is gone.

Is it illegal to flash your lights to warn other drivers?

Technically, yes. It can be classed as “Willfully obstructing a police officer in the execution of their duty” (Police Act 1996). The fine can be up to £1,000. While rarely enforced, it is a risk.

(Sources: GoSafe – Mobile Camera Rules, RAC – Speed Camera Myths)