Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)

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Thank you for your participation and feedback related to this project.

An Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) System is a searchable computerized database resulting from the operation of one or more fixed cameras combined with computer algorithms to read and convert images of registration plates and the characters they contain into computer-readable data (CA Civil Code §1798.90.5(d)). ALPR technologies will assist the Monterey Police Department (MPD) in locating vehicles that have been used in violent crime, retail theft, and other criminal activity. ALPR technologies have addressed privacy concerns by creating systems that are intended to identify vehicles, license plates, and/or makes and models of vehicles, but not vehicle occupants. The ALPR system would not capture personally identifiable information; it would only capture the images and license plates already visible in public.

In addition to the procurement of a fixed ALPR camera system, MPD patrol vehicles are currently equipped with an in-car ALPR system that could be activated and will work in conjunction with a fixed ALPR system. A mobile ALPR system scans and captures license plates from cameras mounted on police vehicles. A fully functional fixed and mobile ALPR program that provides cameras placed at strategic locations throughout the City and in vehicles will add significant investigative leads to help solve and deter crime in Monterey. Technological advancements assist in all endeavors, including detecting and deterring crime.

There are numerous existing state legislative mandates for public agencies that operate ALPR systems. These state legislative mandates will be addressed in MPD Policy 433 – Automated License Plate Readers.

Many communities in Monterey County are utilizing ALPR technology and finding success in apprehending suspects and deterring crime. In Monterey County, the following agencies are utilizing ALPR technology: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Sand City, and Salinas.

An investment in a fully functional ALPR solution will ensure the City is equipped with technology that can help to identify vehicles associated with criminal activity, thus deterring and helping to proactively suppress crime and reduce the fear of crime in Monterey.

An Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) System is a searchable computerized database resulting from the operation of one or more fixed cameras combined with computer algorithms to read and convert images of registration plates and the characters they contain into computer-readable data (CA Civil Code §1798.90.5(d)). ALPR technologies will assist the Monterey Police Department (MPD) in locating vehicles that have been used in violent crime, retail theft, and other criminal activity. ALPR technologies have addressed privacy concerns by creating systems that are intended to identify vehicles, license plates, and/or makes and models of vehicles, but not vehicle occupants. The ALPR system would not capture personally identifiable information; it would only capture the images and license plates already visible in public.

In addition to the procurement of a fixed ALPR camera system, MPD patrol vehicles are currently equipped with an in-car ALPR system that could be activated and will work in conjunction with a fixed ALPR system. A mobile ALPR system scans and captures license plates from cameras mounted on police vehicles. A fully functional fixed and mobile ALPR program that provides cameras placed at strategic locations throughout the City and in vehicles will add significant investigative leads to help solve and deter crime in Monterey. Technological advancements assist in all endeavors, including detecting and deterring crime.

There are numerous existing state legislative mandates for public agencies that operate ALPR systems. These state legislative mandates will be addressed in MPD Policy 433 – Automated License Plate Readers.

Many communities in Monterey County are utilizing ALPR technology and finding success in apprehending suspects and deterring crime. In Monterey County, the following agencies are utilizing ALPR technology: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, Seaside, Sand City, and Salinas.

An investment in a fully functional ALPR solution will ensure the City is equipped with technology that can help to identify vehicles associated with criminal activity, thus deterring and helping to proactively suppress crime and reduce the fear of crime in Monterey.

Thank you for your participation and feedback related to this project.

  • City Council Approves ALPR Policy at April 2, 2024 City Council Meeting

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    At the April 2, 2024 City Council Meeting, City Council approved to Monterey Police Department to proceed with Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) program implementation with the following stipulations: that the audit report be shared with the City Attorney by the Police Chief after a year into the program; that any changes to the policy be brought to the City Council; and that the Police Chief bring a report to Council a year into the program.

    Please see the video from the City Council Meeting where this item started at 3 hours and 34 minutes in: https://www.youtube.com/live/AYweJTnO2vU?si=IbibhTESVDDGg1a8&t=12853

    The next step is implementation of the technology. We will keep the public updated as this new program rolls out.


  • Town Hall Meeting, Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 6 p.m.

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    The community is invited to a Town Hall Meeting about Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). The Town Hall Meeting will be held in the Monterey City Council Chambers, Few Memorial Hall, 580 Pacific Street, on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 6 p.m. Bring your questions and concerns.

    Zoom link: https://monterey-org.zoomgov.com/j/1606041265

  • Town Hall Meeting, Monday, January 22, 2024, at 6 p.m.

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    Here's the recording on YouTube from the town hall - https://www.youtube.com/live/bvVDLy3_l4M?si=znXxLeW7eqXq1y6f

    The community is invited to a Town Hall Meeting about Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). The Town Hall Meeting will be held in the Monterey City Council Chambers, Few Memorial Hall, 580 Pacific Street, on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 6 p.m. Bring your questions and concerns.

    Zoom link: https://monterey-org.zoomgov.com/j/1606041265