Can I still listen to police scanners in New York City, NY?
Police and fire radio in New York City
- New York City Police Department (NYPD): Encrypted (Confirmed encrypted (official)). NYPD's own policy proposal under Local Law 46-2026 says its department radio broadcasts are encrypted. The exception it names is Citywide 1, an open citywide channel used for critical-incident reports that the public can still hear live. The document does not list precinct-by-precinct dates; news reports show the rollout reached Brooklyn precincts between 2023 and 2025. Journalists are to get delayed access via an NYPD platform. Source
What the FCC licenses show
Public safety channels in Bronx County, NY are a mix of analog and digital (41% digital, 23% analog, 36% both). Licenses don't show encryption, so some channels may still be encrypted.
1 public safety licensee in the FCC file belongs to New York City, with 152 voice channels: 7 analog only, 0 digital only, 145 licensed for both.
| Licensee (FCC) | Call signs | Old analog scanner? |
|---|---|---|
| NEW YORK CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT | 373 | 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 New York City (Bronx 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 New York City 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
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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
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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.