Brentwood HOA's Secret Surveillance Cameras Spark Privacy Outcry

In Brentwood, California, the homeowners association of the upscale Shadow Lakes subdivision installed four Flock license-plate readers at the community’s entry points, triggering a backlash from residents who say the cameras violate privacy on public streets. City officials acknowledged that an encroachment permit was granted under a mistaken understanding that the cameras belonged to the Brentwood Police Department, and City Manager Terrance Davis announced the permit will be rescinded, obligating Flock Safety to dismantle the units and restore the right-of-way.

The devices capture vehicle plates, make, model and color but do not employ facial-recognition technology, according to the manufacturer. While the HOA maintains it communicated the project through multiple notices and meetings between November 2025 and June 2026, some homeowners claim they were unaware of the system. The association asserts that only its management can view the data, which is retained for 30 days, and that the cameras were added to address crime and theft concerns after spending roughly $300,000 annually on patrols. City leaders plan to discuss possible regulations for privately owned Flock cameras at an upcoming council meeting.