Can I still listen to police scanners in Canal Winchester, OH?
Based on FCC license data, not yet confirmed by the agency. We haven't confirmed with Canal Winchester'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 Franklin County, OH are mostly digital (86% digital, 12% analog, 2% both). Licenses don't show encryption, so some channels may still be encrypted.
No license in the FCC file is in Canal Winchester's own name, so its police and fire most likely use county or regional radio (23 public safety licensees in Franklin County).
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 Canal Winchester (Franklin County) is licensed as digital. No scanner can play encrypted channels.
Top pick
Uniden SDS100 (handheld)
Most public safety radio around Canal Winchester is licensed as 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.
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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.
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Nearby in Franklin County
Columbus · Westerville · Reynoldsburg · Hilliard · Gahanna · Upper Arlington · Worthington · Bexley