Can I still listen to police scanners in San Diego, CA?
Police and fire radio in San Diego
- San Diego Police Department: Encrypted (Reported (news)). SDPD switched to fully encrypted radio on 2 June 2025. An SDPD lieutenant told KPBS that it previously ran open channels, and the switch follows the 2020 California DOJ directive. Source, 2025-06-03
What the FCC licenses show
Public safety channels in San Diego County, CA are a mix of analog and digital (50% digital, 30% analog, 20% both). Licenses don't show encryption, so some channels may still be encrypted.
1 public safety licensee in the FCC file belongs to San Diego, with 175 voice channels: 45 analog only, 56 digital only, 74 licensed for both.
| Licensee (FCC) | Call signs | Old analog scanner? |
|---|---|---|
| SAN DIEGO, CITY OF | 80 | Partly |
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 San Diego (San Diego County) is licensed as a mix of analog and digital. No scanner can play encrypted channels.
Top pick
Uniden SDS100 (handheld)
Most public safety radio around San Diego is licensed as a mix of analog and 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
We earn a commission if you buy through these links. It doesn't change your price.
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.
Analog only
Uniden BC125AT (handheld)
Hears only the analog channels, which here are part of the picture.
- $137.65 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 San Diego County
Escondido · Chula Vista · Carlsbad · El Cajon · Oceanside · San Marcos · Vista · Encinitas