San Diego Police Department deploys automated license plate readers across patrol cars and select fixed locations. The 2022 TRUST Ordinance (SDMC §210) and California SB-34 require Council approval, written use policies, and annual public reports on ALPR data retention and sharing.
San Diego adopted the Transparent and Responsible Use of Surveillance Technology (TRUST) Ordinance in 2022 (SDMC §§210.0101 et seq.), giving City Council oversight over surveillance technology including SDPD's ALPR systems. SDPD operates Vigilant and Flock-type ALPR cameras on cruisers and partners with neighborhood Flock deployments in some communities. California Civil Code §1798.90.5 (SB-34, 2015) caps retention, mandates a written ALPR usage and privacy policy, restricts third-party sharing, and requires annual public reports. The Privacy Advisory Board reviews acquisitions and impact reports before Council approves new surveillance contracts.
Officers misusing ALPR data face discipline plus civil penalties under Civil Code §1798.90.55 of $2,500 per violation. Vendors failing usage policies risk contract termination and CA AG enforcement, and Council can suspend technology operated outside approved policy.
See how San Diego's license plate readers rules stack up against other locations.
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