Police expanding use of closed-circuit cameras in City of Waterloo

A sign in Waterloo, Ont. warns CCTV cameras are being used in the area of Marshall St. March 17, 2025 (Krista Simpson/CTV News)

More closed-circuit cameras are coming to the City of Waterloo.

On Tuesday, the Waterloo Regional Police Service announced they were expanding their use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems equipped with automated licence plate recognition technology.

Cameras have already been installed on King Street North at Conestogo Road and University Avenue West at King Street North, but police said more locations will be added.“Camera locations are determined through data-driven analysis conducted by the WRPS Crime Analysis Unit, focusing on areas with a demonstrated public safety need,” read a news release.

Police said the footage from the cameras will only be accesses for law-enforcement purposes and any video that is not needed for an investigation will be automatically deleted after 30 days.

“Our goal is to enhance community safety while respecting the rights and freedoms of the community we serve,” said Police Chief Mark Crowell. “By using technology like CCTV and ALPR responsibly and transparently, we are providing officers with another valuable tool to help keep our community safe.”

The CCTV systems were installed in Waterloo on Tuesday. Police said more cameras will be put up in Kitchener, Cambridge and North Dumfries in the future.