License Plate Readers: Los Angeles vs Topanga
How do license plate readers rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Topanga, CA?
Los Angeles and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAPD operates automated license plate reader cameras citywide. California Civil Code Sections 1798.90.5 through 1798.90.55 (SB-34) require usage and privacy policies, audits, and retention limits. LAPD currently retains plate data for five years.
View full Los Angeles rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department operates automated license plate reader systems under California Civil Code 1798.90.5 and SB 34 retention, security, and audit requirements applicable to all California ALPR operators.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Governing state law | Civil Code 1798.90.5 (SB-34) | - |
| LAPD retention | Five years | - |
| LAPD policy citation | LAPD Manual 4/263 | - |
| Federal sharing limit | SB-54 sanctuary rules | - |
| Public access | Records Act requests only | - |
| State authority | - | CA Civil Code 1798.90 + SB 34 |
| Operator | - | LA County Sheriff Department |
| Retention | - | Up to five years typical |
| Public records | - | Subject to CPRA disclosure |
| Data sharing | - | Joint Regional Intelligence Center |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
How long does LAPD keep my license plate scans?
LAPD retains automated license plate reader data for five years under current policy, regardless of whether the plate matches an investigative hit list.
Can LAPD share ALPR data with ICE?
California Senate Bill 54 limits state and local agency cooperation with immigration enforcement. LAPD has been audited for ALPR data sharing; current policy prohibits transfers to federal immigration authorities.
Topanga FAQ
Can I find out if my license plate was scanned?
Yes, partially. The California Supreme Court ruled ALPR data is subject to Public Records Act review with redaction. File a request with the Sheriff's Department citing ACLU v. Superior Court 2017 to obtain hits on your plate.
How long does the County keep ALPR data?
Currently up to five years per Sheriff policy, longer than many counties. SB 34 requires the policy be posted and audited annually, but does not set a maximum retention. Civil liberties groups continue to push for shorter limits.
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