James Curtis
•8/31/2026
The Florida Department of Transportation revoked general use permits for automated license plate readers on state highways Monday. According to FDOT's news release, all LPR related approvals issued to law enforcement agencies are revoked and devices must be removed within 30 days. If the devices are not removed, the department will remove the remaining devices subject to the memorandum. If an LPR device is a safety concern or causes an unsafe condition, FDOT said it can remove the reader. In addition, FDOT said it will use its authority to stop issuing permits in future requests for LPR systems. FDOT said in the release that the increase in LPR use along Florida roads as well as reports of misuse, data privacy concerns and surveillance led to action that is meant "to preserve Floridians' sovereignty and quality of life." According to the Lee County Sheriff's Office, it is reviewing the state's order on LPR use. The Fort Myers Police Department said, "We do not use, own or operate any Flock cameras." Gulf Coast News has reached out to other law enforcement agencies for comment on the order. Elsewhere in the state, Brevard, Clay, Okaloosa, Pasco, Putnam and Volusia counties and the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office have posted on social media that they are discontinuing LPR use. Count on Gulf Coast News to keep you updated. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.
