Can I still listen to police scanners in Los Angeles, CA?
Based on FCC license data, not yet confirmed by the agency. We haven't confirmed with Los Angeles's police or fire department whether their radio is encrypted. Source: FCC ULS license file of 18 Oct 2026, checked 27 Oct 2026.
What the FCC licenses show
Public safety channels in Los Angeles County, CA are mostly digital (65% digital, 11% analog, 24% both). Licenses don't show encryption, so some channels may still be encrypted.
4 public safety licensees in the FCC file belong to Los Angeles, with 527 voice channels: 22 analog only, 368 digital only, 137 licensed for both.
| Licensee (FCC) | Call signs | Old analog scanner? |
|---|---|---|
LOS ANGELES, CITY OF3 other namesCITY OF LOS ANGELES; LOS ANGELES CITY OF; LOS ANGELES METRO TRANS AUTHORITY | 158 | Partly |
CITY OF LOS ANGELES - LOS ANGELES WORLD AIRPORTS1 other nameLOS ANGELES, CITY OF (LOS ANGELES WORLD AIRPORTS) | 8 | Partly |
| CITY OF LOS ANGELES FIRE STATION 15 | 1 | Unknown |
| SCHAEFER AMBULANCE SERVICE INC | 1 | Yes |
FCC source: FCC ULS license file, file date 18 Oct 2026, as of 27 Oct 2026.
Which scanner works here
Most public safety radio around Los Angeles (Los Angeles County) is licensed as mostly digital. No scanner can play encrypted channels.
Top pick
Uniden SDS100 (handheld)
Most public safety radio around Los Angeles is licensed as mostly digital. A digital P25 Phase II scanner hears analog and P25, wherever traffic isn't encrypted. It also handles simulcast sites, which licenses don't show.
- $689.99 Amazon
- $699.99 ScannerMaster
Prices as of 19 Oct 2026
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Cheaper P25 option
Whistler WS1065 (desk)
Hears P25 Phase I and II, but can struggle near simulcast sites. A good choice if you've confirmed the local system isn't simulcast.
- $351.49 Amazon
Price as of 19 Oct 2026
We earn a commission if you buy through these links. It doesn't change your price.
Nearby in Los Angeles County
Long Beach · Burbank · Santa Clarita · Torrance · Redondo Beach · Culver City · Norwalk · Acton