Flock license plate reader cameras are coming down from all state roads in Florida, following a directive from the Florida Department of Transportation.
As of October 1, 2026, law enforcement agencies must remove these cameras from state roads and highways. FDOT gave agencies a 30-day deadline to comply, warning that if they’re not taken down in time, the department will pull the cameras themselves. If any device is an immediate safety risk, FDOT says it will take action even sooner.
This move reverses all existing permits for license plate readers on state land and ends new approvals for these systems in areas the department controls. The ruling doesn’t affect city or county roads; many agencies plan to keep their cameras there for now. Several local governments, like the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and Manatee County, have already started pulling back on Flock cameras or paused new installations. St. Pete officials say they’re also reconsidering their involvement.
The crackdown comes right after Governor Ron DeSantis blasted Flock cameras as “out of control.” During his August 26 press conference, he recognized these cameras can support police work, but he drew the line at mass surveillance. “Tracking down criminals? Sure, let’s do that,” DeSantis said. “But surveilling the everyday movement of Floridians? That’s not the direction we want to go.” DeSantis raised concerns about tech companies knowing too much about residents, adding that only legislation can fully address the issue.
Recent scandals added pressure on the state to act. Last month, authorities arrested a Haines City police officer for using Flock cameras to track his estranged wife’s car hundreds of times.
Sarasota police fired and arrested an officer for misusing Flock technology and other sensitive databases.
FDOT says the decision to remove these cameras will help restore privacy and protect the quality of life in Florida. They pointed to a spike in license plate reader use, the possibility for abuse, and growing reports of overreach and data privacy violations. For now, Flock cameras will stay off state roads. What happens next on county and city streets remains a local decision.
