MapQuest Adds Layer Showing Surveillance Camera Locations
The application now includes a map feature displaying the sites of outdoor cameras and license plate readers.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Property Crime
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MapQuest has introduced a new toggleable map layer that identifies the locations of outdoor surveillance cameras and license plate readers. The tool is available within the application interface alongside standard traffic and incident reporting features.
Why it matters
This update provides users with increased transparency regarding the presence of surveillance technology in public spaces. By integrating this information into a widely used mapping interface, the tool makes camera locations easily accessible to the general public.
The new MapQuest layer tracks hardware from 11 major manufacturers, including Flock, Motorola Solutions, and Verkada. The data integration tracks devices like license plate readers relative to existing traffic reporting tools.
The players
MapQuest
MapQuest is a web mapping service that provides driving directions and interactive maps.
Flock Safety
Flock Safety is a technology company that produces license plate recognition cameras for public and private safety use.
The details
Users can access this data by enabling a specific layer within the MapQuest application menu. The system displays devices from manufacturers such as Genetec, Axis Communications, Axon, Leonardo, Neology, Rekor, PlateSmart, and Ubicquia.
Timeline
MapQuest announced the new surveillance camera map layer on October 16, 2026.
Legal Context
This layer follows the pattern set by the Google Maps traffic incident reporting interface, which pioneered the use of administrative data overlays in navigation apps. Such integrations represent a shift toward making public infrastructure data visible within routine transit software.
Users can now identify the specific locations of surveillance cameras and license plate readers during their daily commutes. This feature allows individuals to gain greater awareness of public security infrastructure in their immediate surroundings.
The takeaway
This new feature increases transparency regarding public surveillance deployments globally. Users should check their app settings to toggle the layer and view camera placements in their local area.
Further reading
Learn more about modern tracking and security trends in our Property Crime section.
Live Poll
Do you feel safer knowing the locations of surveillance cameras in your neighborhood?
