Independent · Local · Community-first
slc proposes flock camera rules banning facial recognition and first amendment monitoring
The proposed ordinance would also restrict how police share license plate data, require case numbers and justification for searches, mandate.
Salt Lake City is considering new rules governing how police use automated license plate reader cameras amid growing privacy concerns across Utah.
The proposed ordinance would prohibit using the system for facial recognition and monitoring people based solely on First Amendment-protected activity. It would also place restrictions on how license plate data is shared and require officers to provide a case number, crime type and justification when conducting searches. Regular audits and an annual public review would also be required.
The proposal comes as scrutiny over license plate readers grows statewide. Gov. Spencer Cox recently ordered a review after records showed 10 Flock cameras in Weber County had been searched more than 5 million times since 2022, with the vast majority of searches coming from agencies outside Utah.
Salt Lake City currently uses Motorola Solutions’ ALPR system rather than Flock Safety cameras, but the proposed ordinance would establish rules governing the city’s use of the technology.
