Method 1: Generate a public records request (2 minutes)
Use the FOIA request generator — it writes a state-specific letter asking for the Flock contract, camera locations and retention policy. Send it to your police department's records division. State law gives them a deadline to respond, usually 10–30 days. This is the method that produces documented facts, not guesses.
Method 2: Ask your police department directly
Many agencies publish their ALPR policies or will tell you over the phone whether they operate Flock cameras. It's not a formal record, but it's free and instant — and it's a reasonable first step before filing a formal request.
Method 3: Check city council minutes
Flock agreements are approved in public meetings. Search your city council's meeting minutes and agendas for "Flock," "ALPR" or "license plate reader" — you'll often find the contract discussion, the vote and sometimes the locations.
Method 4: Know what to look for
Flock cameras are commonly described as small box-shaped units on poles at intersections and neighborhood entrances, often with a small solar panel — see what Flock cameras look like for the full guide. Spotting one is a strong signal; confirming it is what the records request is for.
Method 5: Use community trackers
Check your state's page on our state tracker for what's reported, and the incident map for documented events. Reporting from local news and open-source projects like DeFlock also map camera locations.