A rising number of U.S. communities are turning away from Flock Safety’s Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras. Many cities and local governments are rejecting proposed systems, canceling existing contracts, turning off cameras, or opting not to renew agreements. Concerns over privacy, data sharing, and government surveillance drive these decisions.

Flock Safety’s expansion is rapid in the U.S. According to DeFlock, an anti-surveillance group, over 122,000 license plate reader cameras are mapped nationwide. They note that 95 cities have rejected ALPR systems. The trend follows growing opposition to Flock cameras, often used by law enforcement to identify vehicles related to crimes and investigations.

“Critics say the technology can create extensive driver movement databases. Supporters argue it’s a key tool in crime-solving and suspect location,” according to critics and supporters.

Contracts Cancelled and Renewals Denied

Several communities recently ended their Flock relationships. In May, El Cerrito City Council in California chose not to renew its Flock contract. The city’s cameras were switched off on June 7, 2026. Council members were concerned about potential federal government data access and dissatisfaction with company negotiations. Mayor Pro Tem Rebecca Saltzman expressed worry about federal access to data, stating, “The law is constantly changing, and we’re losing more rights weekly. Trump and the Supreme Court could require Flock to hand over the data tomorrow.”

Appleton, Wisconsin, also moved away from Flock in May. Community feedback and program integrity concerns led city officials to stop using the cameras. Mayor Jake Woodford highlighted eroded trust in Flock’s system.

In other cases, governments terminated contracts after public opposition. Bloomington, Indiana, ended a $50,000 Flock agreement following significant community pushback. Tompkins County, New York, canceled its contract after months of resident activism against surveillance. Ithaca and Saranac Lake in New York similarly canceled contracts amid privacy concerns and criticism.

Proposals Rejected Before Cameras Were Installed

Some communities halted Flock deployments before installations. In Shoreline, Washington, a planning meeting with Flock was canceled in April due to public opposition and concerns from council members. Mayor Betsy Robertson informed The Osprey that council members thought it was “not a good time” and showed no interest in pursuing the system.

In Menominee, Michigan, city leaders unanimously voted in May to cancel an arrangement after cameras were activated without council approval. Officials questioned collected data’s destination and system activation without formal authorization. Salem, Illinois, also canceled its Flock agreement due to concerns over altered contract terms.

Cameras Switched Off

Not all communities have banned the technology entirely. Some have deactivated systems while reassessing privacy and oversight matters. DeFlock’s tracker shows numerous communities shutting down cameras, with 22 jurisdictions deactivating systems, 47 canceling contracts, and 25 rejecting proposals. Ypsilanti, Michigan, is the only jurisdiction listed as having formally banned ALPRs outright.

Why Communities Are Pushing Back

Several recurring themes appear in local debates. Privacy concerns are prominent, with critics fearing ALPR networks create long-term vehicle movement records. Other worries include federal data access, transparency about operating technology, and a lack of community consultation before approval.

The pushback has moved from online criticism to local government halls. Residents organized campaigns, attended meetings, and pressured officials to reconsider surveillance programs. DeFlock attributes several cancellations to public opposition and activism. Meanwhile, Flock camera supporters believe in their role in crime investigations, locating stolen vehicles, and generating leads in cases. Flock argues its technology is vehicle-focused and supports public safety.

As debates continue over surveillance, privacy, and policing, more cities challenge Flock’s expansion. While thousands of communities still use ALPR technology, many are rejecting new proposals, terminating contracts, or shutting off cameras.

For inquiries, contact Newsweek editors Tobias Meyjes and Sam Wilson.