California cities move to restrict Flock surveillance cameras

California municipalities are taking steps to limit or remove Flock Safety surveillance cameras following privacy concerns and administrative errors.

In Brentwood, officials are working to revoke an encroachment permit for license plate reader cameras installed by the Shadow Lakes Homeowners Association. Acting City Manager Terrance Davis stated the permit was issued under the “mistaken understanding” that the cameras were part of an existing Brentwood Police Department program. If revoked, the cameras must be removed from the public right-of-way. Residents have raised objections regarding oversight and data control in non-gated areas.

In Santa Barbara, the City Council is moving to end its contract with Flock Safety after public backlash regarding the company’s data-sharing practices. Concerns were raised about the potential for collected data to be accessed by federal agencies for immigration enforcement. City staff has recommended transitioning to a closed system provided by Verkada, which would be owned by the city to ensure data remains within local control.