FDOT orders Florida license plate readers removed from state highways within 30 days
The Florida Department of Transportation has revoked all permits for automated license plate recognition systems on state highways, citing privacy concerns, reports of misuse and a significant rise in deployments.
The decision was detailed in Engineering and Operations Memorandum No. 26-01, issued on Aug. 31 by Will Watts, P.E., chief operating officer and assistant secretary for FDOT. The directive applies to all local law enforcement agencies currently operating LPR systems within the State Highway System.
According to FDOT, all previously approved LPR-related permits are being revoked immediately. Local law enforcement agencies with devices installed within state rights-of-way must remove them within 30 days of the memorandum’s issuance. FDOT stated that it will remove any remaining devices itself if agencies fail to comply within the timeframe. Additionally, the department reserved the right to remove any device immediately if it poses a safety concern or creates an unsafe condition.
In the memorandum, FDOT acknowledged its broad authority under Florida law to approve, deny, or remove LPR devices installed on the State Highway System by local law enforcement agencies. The agency said the recent “exponential increase” in license plate reader deployments, along with reports involving misuse, data privacy concerns, and surveillance-related issues, prompted the decision. FDOT stated that immediate action was necessary to protect Floridians’ sovereignty and quality of life.
FDOT also announced it will no longer approve future requests for the placement of license plate reader systems within areas under its jurisdiction. The memorandum states that the department will exercise its discretionary authority to discontinue the issuance of all future LPR permits.
Automated license plate recognition systems use cameras and software to capture and analyze vehicle license plate information. Under Florida law, only law enforcement agencies are eligible to seek permits for such systems within state highway rights-of-way. FDOT’s memorandum reinforces the department’s authority to regulate and remove these devices from the State Highway System when deemed necessary.
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