CC SR 20250805 H- Security Camera Reimbursement Guidelines
CITY COUNCIL MEETING DATE: 08/05/2025
AGENDA REPORT AGENDA HEADING: Consent Calendar
AGENDA TITLE:
Consider amendments to the Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program
guidelines.
RECOMMENDED COUNCIL ACTION:
1) Approve the proposed amendments to the Neighborhood Public Safety
Reimbursement Program guidelines thereby increasing the annual reimbursement
amount for neighborhood security camera maintenance fees from $2,000 to $2,500,
effective July 1, 2025.
FISCAL IMPACT: To accommodate an increase in the reimbursement amount due to
rising costs passed on to participants, the City’s Neighborhood
Public Safety Reimbursement program budget was increased from
$40,000 in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25 to $45,000 in FY 2025-26. This
adjustment ensures the City can continue to support existing
participants (both individuals and neighborhoods) with the increase
in annual maintenance and subscription costs while allowing the
opportunity for new applicants. VR
Amount Budgeted: $45,000
Additional Appropriation: N/A
Account Number(s): 101-400-6120-6104
(General Fund- Public Safety Special Programs) VR
ORIGINATED BY: Jennifer Schmid, Public Safety Manager JS
Lucas Balbi, Public Safety and Emergency Management Intern LB
REVIEWED BY: Catherine Jun, Deputy City Manager CJ
APPROVED BY: Ara Mihranian, AICP, City Manager
ATTACHED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
A. Individual Security Camera Reimbursement Guidelines (page A-1)
• Individual Security Camera Reimbursement Application
B. HOA and Neighborhood Security Camera Reimbursement Guidelines (page
B-1)
• HOA and Neighborhood Security Camera Reimbursement Application
1
BACKGROUND:
The Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program (Program) was established to
enhance community safety by encouraging the installation of exterior security cameras at
both individual residences and neighborhood entry points. By offering financial assistance
to reimburse residents and neighborhoods/homeowners for a portion of those purchases,
the Program promotes proactive crime deterrence and supports law enforcement
investigations through access to video footage following reported incidents. The Program
also aims to foster community involvement in public safety efforts while expanding the
City’s overall network of surveillance tools in a cost effective and collaborative manner.
Since 2017, the Program has provided over $145,000 in reimbursements to residents and
neighborhoods, supporting the purchase of both individual doorbell cameras and
neighborhood-based camera systems.
The current Program offers a 50% reimbursement up to $100 for individuals and up to
$2,000 for neighborhoods to help offset the cost of eligible security equipment. In
response to rising annual maintenance costs for the neighborhood’s camera systems
(that are generally furnished by Flock), the City Council is being asked to consider
increase in the neighborhood reimbursement cap to $2,500. This adjustment is already
accounted for in the FY 2025–26 budget, which increased program funding from $40,000
to $45,000.
DISCUSSION:
With the recent increase in annual maintenance fee for the Flock Safety Service cameras,
which many participating neighborhoods utilize, staff requests City Council approval to
increase the annual reimbursement amount for participating HOAs to up to $2,500. The
typical annual cost to participants for the lease of a Flock camera has increased from
roughly $2,500/year per camera to approximately $3,000/year per camera, with
neighborhoods generally having two or more cameras each.
The Flock system, for example, reads license plates against the National Crime
Information Center and local state hot lists to alert law enforcement about stolen or
flagged vehicles. These security cameras have served as a valuable tool for the Los
Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in assisting with criminal investigations and
enhancing neighborhood safety. While the system is not actively monitored 24/7 and in
real time, deputies are able to access the footage when a crime has occurred, using the
camera data to identify potential suspects and gather leads. This responsive approach
significantly enhances the City’s ability to support effective, real-time investigations and
reinforces our collective commitment to neighborhood safety.
This adjustment is funded as part of the adopted FY 2025-26 budget. Staff is seeking
Council’s formal approval to implement the updated reimbursement rate and amending
the current program guidelines to ensure they remain aligned with the evolving safety
needs of the city. It should be noted that the Program applies to any surveillance camera
system and is not limited to the use of services provided by Flock.
2
Attachments A and B include the updated program guidelines and application form, which
have been prepared to ensure the program remains transparent, user friendly, and
aligned with the City’s public safety objectives. These materials are designed to make the
application process as seamless and accessible as possible for residents. Key
amendments to the guidelines include:
•Application Process:
o Submit valid ID, utility bill, receipts, and photos of installed equipment
o Applications available online and in physical form
•Camera Requirements:
o New and in original packaging
o Hard-wired, solar powered, or battery-operated
o Minimum purchase price of $100 per camera (before tax and installation)
o Only camera cost is eligible (excludes tax, installation, accessories,
storage, or monthly fees)
•Reimbursement Amount:
o Residents: 50% reimbursement, up to $100 per household
o HOA and/or Neighborhoods: Up to $2,500 annually (effective FY 25-26
•Permitting Requirements:
o Permit fees waived, but all required permits must still be obtained
(encroachment, Coastal Commission, minor site plan review, etc.)
To further encourage participation, both online and physical applications will be made
available at https://www.rpvca.gov/1329/Public-Safety-Reimbursement-Program.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends to approve the amended guidelines, effective July 1, 2025, which will
increase the Program’s reimbursement amount from up to $2,000 to up to $2,500
annually in addition to other minor modifications which are all reflected in the guidelines.
ALTERNATIVES:
The following alternative actions are available for the City Council’s consideration:
1.Do not approve one or more recommendations and direct staff accordingly, which
may include requests to return with additional information or updates.
2.Take other action.
3
Individual Resident Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program Guidelines
Effective July 1, 2025
The City of Rancho Palos Verdes is proud to offer residents a one-time rebate program to
support the installation of external, home security cameras. This initiative aims to enhance
community safety and deter criminal activity by encouraging proactive security measures.
Eligibility Requirement:
To qualify for the rebate program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1.Residency
•Must be a resident of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
•A valid government-issued photo ID showing a Rancho Palos Verdes residential
address is required.
2.Proof of Residence
•A current utility bill dated within 60 days of the application must match the
address listed on the government-issued ID.
3.Property Ownership or Authorization
•Applicants must either:
o Own the property where the camera is being installed; or
o If renting, provide a signed letter from the property owner granting
permission for installation.
Eligible Equipment Criteria
To qualify for reimbursement, security cameras must meet the following standards:
•Condition: Must be brand-new and in original packaging at the time of purchase.
•Power Source: Must be hard-wired, solar-powered, or battery-operated.
•Minimum Value: Cameras must have a minimum purchase price of $100 each (pre-
tax and before installation costs).
Note: Only the cost of the camera(s) is eligible for reimbursement. Taxes, installation,
accessories, extended storage devices, or monthly monitoring fees are not eligible.
A-1
Rebate Amount
Eligible residents may receive a one-time reimbursement of 50% of the total camera cost,
up to a maximum of $100 per household.
Application Process
To apply for the rebate, residents must:
1.Complete the Home Security Camera & Alarm System Rebate Application.
2.Submit the following documentation:
a.A valid government-issued ID with an RPV address.
b.A recent utility bill (dated within 60 days).
c.Purchase receipt(s) showing itemized equipment and prices.
d.Photo(s) of the installed security camera(s).
3.Applications must be submitted in full for consideration. Incomplete applications
may result in denial or delays in processing.
Permit Requirements
It is the responsibility of the applicant and/or their selected vendor to determine whether
permits are required for installation. Depending on the installation location, the following
may apply:
•Encroachment Permit: Required for any installations within the public right-of-way.
•Coastal Permit: Required for properties within the Coastal Zone (seaward of Palos
Verdes Drive South).
•Minor Site Plan Review: May be required for installations on private property,
particularly those affecting visual aesthetics or building structure.
Permit Fee Waiver: While permit fees may be waived for rebate participants, this program
does not exempt applicants from the permitting process itself. All required approvals must
be obtained before installation.
Additional Notes
Rebates are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to available funding. The City
reserves the right to deny reimbursement for any reason including, but not limited to, lack of
compliance with program requirements or insufficient documentation. Rebate checks will
be issued only after the application is reviewed and approved.
A-2
Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program
Individual Application The City will provide a one-time reimbursement for half of the cost of a new public safety purchase, up to $100 for individuals. The City will additionally waive permit fees directly related to a permit to install the approved purchase, if required. The individual or vendor will be responsible for completing any necessary permits prior to installation.
1. Applicant Information
Full Name
Residential Address
Mailing Address
Email Address
Phone Number
A-3
2. Proof of Residency Attach a government-issued photo ID AND a current utility bill showing the applicant's name and address.
3. Ownership Status [ ] Owner [ ] Renter. If checked, please complete the Landlord information below.
Landlord's Name
Landlord's Signature (or attach written permission)
4. Camera Purchase Details
Date of Purchase
Vendor/Retailer Name
Camera Make & Serial Number (Attach Photo)
Quantity of Cameras (limit 1)
A-4
Total Amount Paid ($) (Attach Receipt)
5. Installation Details
Installation Date
• Attach photo showing the camera installed in an exterior-facing position with
date stamp.
• Attach screenshot or photo showing the security camera mobile/desktop
application installed.
Camera must be installed to capture any of the following angles: Residential Front Door Residential Front Driveway Backyard Fence Line Front/Side Facing Sidewalk Residential Front Yard Garage Door Entrances Adjacent Alley Way Side Yard
6. Program Eligibility Acknowledgement [ ] I confirm that only one rebate is requested per address. [ ] The security camera is installed and operational. [ ] The camera will not be resold. [ ] I agree to comply with all program rules.
7. Rebate Request
Mailing Address for Rebate Check
A-5
8. Applicant Certification By signing below, I certify under penalty of perjury that the information provided is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I further acknowledge that some information contained in this application is a public record and may be subject to disclosure.
Signature
Date
For City Staff Use Only [ ] ID [ ] Utility Bill [ ] Purchase Receipt [ ] Camera Photo [ ] Installation Photo [ ] App Screenshot Reviewed By: ____________________________ Date Reviewed: ___________________________ Application ID: ___________________________ Approved [ ] Denied [ ]
A-6
HOA and Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program Guidelines
2025
To promote neighborhood safety and deter criminal activity, the City of Rancho Palos Verdes
is proud to partner with local Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Neighborhoods
through a reimbursement program supporting the installation of security cameras. This
program offers a cost-sharing opportunity for qualified HOAs and neighborhoods to
enhance surveillance and crime prevention efforts in their communities.
Program Overview:
The City will reimburse 50% of the total cost of the camera installation, not to exceed a
maximum of $2,500 per HOA/Neighborhood. All reimbursements are subject to compliance
with the guidelines outlined below.
Eligibility Requirements:
1.Registered HOA and/or Neighborhood must be located within city boundaries.
2.HOA and/or Neighborhood must submit a formal request and receive pre-approval
from the City prior to installation.
3.HOAs and/or Neighborhoods utilizing FLOCK: The security camera system must be
provided through Flock Safety and used solely for public safety and crime prevention
purposes.
4.HOAs and/or Neighborhoods must submit an attestation of community consensus,
an example of which is included in the application materials. All neighborhoods,
whether they are formally represented or not, must submit the attestation, with the
signatures of at least 40% of the homeowners in the neighborhood.
Application Requirements:
To be considered for reimbursement, the HOA or Neighborhood must submit the following:
1.A completed Security Camera Program Application.
2.Detailed invoice indicating the full cost of installation and the number of cameras
installed.
3.Proof of payment for the system (receipt or payment confirmation).
4.A detailed map or diagram clearly indicating the camera location(s), including
nearest cross streets or neighborhood entry points.
B-1
5. Confirmation that the HOA President or designated Neighborhood representative,
and designated city personnel will be the only parties granted system access, as
outlined below.
Access Requirements:
To ensure privacy, proper data management, and secure access:
1. Only the HOA President or designated Neighborhood represented shall be granted
access to the camera system dashboard for their association.
2. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
(Lomita Station) must also be granted direct, secure access to the system.
3. Log-in credentials may not be shared with any other HOA board members, residents,
or third parties. Any credentials that are updated must be immediately
communicated to the City’s Public Safety Division.
4. All access to security camera data must adhere to the company’s data usage policies
and be used solely for public safety or investigatory purposes.
Reimbursement Process:
Upon successful installation and documentation submission:
1. The City will review and verify all materials.
2. If all requirements are met, the City will issue a reimbursement of 50% of the total
invoice amount, not to exceed $2,500.
3. Payment may take up to 4–6 weeks to process from the date of approval.
Additional Terms:
• HOA and Neighborhoods with a Flock System or similar system must maintain it
system in good operational condition and comply with any updates required by the
camera manufacturer or the City.
• Failure to comply with access limitations or program requirements may result in
termination of access and forfeiture of future reimbursement opportunities.
• Proof of installation (e.g., photos, verification report from camera manufacturer, or
completion acknowledgment from installer) must be included with the
reimbursement request.
• The neighborhood/HOA and their selected vendor are responsible for preparing and
submitting all necessary permits related to installation of the purchase, including as
appropriate, but not limited to: Encroachment Permit for any installations in the
public right-of-way, Coastal Permit for any installations in the Coastal Zone (area
seaward from Palos Verdes Drive South), and Minor Site Plan Review for installations
on private property. Cameras cannot be installed on city property for
neighborhood use. Participation in the program shall waive permit fees associated
with necessary permits, but in no way exempts a project from the permitting process.
B-2
Neighborhood Public Safety Reimbursement Program
Neighborhood / HOA Application The City will reimburse 50% of the total cost of the Security Safety camera installation, not to exceed a maximum of up to $2,500 per neighborhood or HOA. Reimbursement is contingent on City pre-approval, verified installation, and submission of all required documentation. Program participation requires compliance with all privacy, access, and permit regulations outlined in the program guidelines.
1. HOA & Contact Information
HOA/Neighborhood Name
HOA/Neighborhood Mailing Address
HOA/Neighborhood Name
Representative Title
Email Address
B-3
Phone Number
Neighborhood or HOA Location / Boundaries (cross streets, gates, etc.)
2. Eligibility Attestation [ ] Neighborhood or HOA is registered and located within Rancho Palos Verdes [ ] Neighborhood or HOA has received pre-approval from the City for this installation [ ] Security Camera system [ ] Flock [ ] Ring [ ] Other:_____________________________________________________________________________________ [ ] System will be used only for public safety and crime prevention [ ] Attestation of community consensus with 40% homeowner signatures is attached
3. Camera & Installation Details
Number of Cameras Installed
• Attach a map/diagram showing camera locations and nearest cross streets.
• Attach proof of installation (e.g., photo, Flock report, installer confirmation).
4. Required Documentation [ ] Invoice from Security Camera showing full cost and number of cameras [ ] Proof of payment (receipt or confirmation) [ ] Map or diagram of camera placement
B-4
[ ] Proof of installation
5. Access Acknowledgement [ ] Only HOA President or designated Neighborhood Representative will access the security camera system dashboard [ ] Access will be granted to RPV City staff and LASD Lomita Station [ ] Credentials will not be shared with others. Any credentials that are updated must be immediately communicated to the City’s Public Safety Division. [ ] Access and usage will comply with Flock Safety’s data policies
6. Permit Compliance [ ] I acknowledge that all necessary permits will be obtained Note: Participation in the program waives permit fees but does not waive the requirement for permit approval where applicable (e.g., Encroachment Permit, Coastal Permit, Site Plan Review).
7. Reimbursement Information
Total Cost of Security Camera System
Reimbursement Check Payable To
Mailing Address for Reimbursement Check Note: The City will reimburse 50% of the total cost, not to exceed $2,500.
8. Certification By signing below, I certify under penalty of perjury that all information provided is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I agree to comply with all program requirements and understand that information provided may be a public record.
Signature
B-5
Date
B-6
For City Staff Use Only [ ] Invoice Received [ ] Payment Confirmation Received [ ] Installation Proof Received [ ] Map/Diagram Received [ ] Attestation Received [ ] Pre-Approval Confirmed
Reviewed By: ____________________________ Date Reviewed: ___________________________ Application ID: ___________________________ Approved [ ] Denied [ ]
B-7