ALPR Camera Program
The Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) Program provides the Washoe County Sheriff's Office and NNRIC with another tool to help identify vehicles associated with criminal activity and threats to community safety.
ALPR cameras are fixed cameras that capture still images of license plates and vehicles as they pass. The technology can quickly compare license plate information against law enforcement data, helping personnel identify and locate vehicles associated with stolen vehicles, wanted suspects, Amber Alerts, violent crimes, and other active criminal investigations.
ALPR technology can provide investigators and responding deputies with timely, actionable information that may otherwise be unattainable. By helping narrow investigative leads and alert law enforcement when a vehicle of interest is detected, the system supports faster response and more efficient use of public safety resources.
The program is not intended for general surveillance or monitoring routine travel. ALPR cameras do not record audio or use facial recognition, and access to ALPR data is limited to trained, authorized law enforcement personnel for legitimate and lawful purposes.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office and Northern Nevada Intelligence Center are committed to using ALPR technology responsibly and with appropriate safeguards for privacy, access, data retention, accountability, and transparency.
View ALPR Transparency Portal
The WCSO is committed to the responsible and transparent use of Automated License Plate Recognition (ALPR) technology. The ALPR Transparency Portal provides additional information about the program, including how ALPR technology is used, program policies, practices, success stories, and data about its use in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are ALPR cameras and why is WCSO using them? ALPR (Automated License Plate Recognition) cameras are fixed cameras that take still images of license plates as vehicles pass by. The WCSO uses these cameras to help recover stolen vehicles, located wanted suspects, respond to Amber Alerts, and support investigations involving violent crime or threats to community safety.
- Do these cameras record people or drivers? No. ALPR cameras used by the WCSO do not record audio, do not use facial recognition, and do not track individual people.
- Where are the cameras placed? Cameras are placed in high-crime areas, major thoroughfares identified in conjunction with crime analysis, and areas with ongoing public safety concerns. All locations are selected based on crime data, public safety needs, and in consultation with Washoe County Public Works and/or city partners.
- Is this surveillance? Will my daily driving be tracked? The ALPR system is not used for general surveillance. WCSO only uses the cameras to identify vehicles associated with specific crimes, investigate leads from known cases, and respond to real-time alerts for stolen or wanted vehicles. The system users do not track routine travel or monitor residents without an active criminal investigation.
- How long is the data stored? License plate data is retained in the ALPR system for 30 days, after which it is automatically deleted. If data is identified as relevant to an active investigation, it may be preserved as evidence and securely stored in accordance with WCSO evidence retention requirements.
- Who as access to the ALPR system? Only trained, authorized law enforcement personnel within WCSO and vetted partner agencies can access ALPR data. Every access is logged and the system is audited every three months.
- Can the public or private companies access this data? No. ALPR data is not shared with private companies, insurance providers, or the general public. It is only used for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
- Are signs posted where cameras are installed? No.
- Can I request camera footage as a citizen? Because ALPR systems do not capture traditional video or general footage, individual requests for footage are typically not applicable. However, WCSO follows all public records laws and will review any lawful request.
- Is this system used for immigration enforcement or political monitoring? No. WCSO's ALPR system is not used for immigration enforcement or surveillance of individuals based on political, religious, protected classes, protected statuses, or protected activities. If a partner agency is found to be accessing or using WCSO ALPR data for immigration enforcement or other unauthorized purpose, that agency's access will be terminated upon discovery.
- How can I learn more or raise a concern? The WCSO welcomes community feedback and is committed to transparency and lawful use of all technology. You can contact the WCSO ALPR Program Coordinator at nnric@washoecounty.gov or the Public Information Officer and Community Engagement Team at sheriffweb@washoecounty.gov
Policy and Guidelines
The Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) Program operates under strict policies and procedures designed to protect individual privacy and civil liberties. All aspects of the Center's programs are conducted in compliance with current and applicable federal and state laws. All video access and usage is governed by protocols that ensure transparency, accountability, and the highest respect for the rights of our residents and business owners.
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