RCMP invites Kelowna businesses to collaborate on new CCTV registry 

The Kelowna RCMP, in partnership with the City of Kelowna, is launching a new voluntary Business CCTV (Closed Circuit TV) Registry designed to help police more quickly locate and request video evidence following an incident near a participating business.  

“The Business CCTV Registry was one of the recommendations that came forward from the Mayor’s Task Force on Crime Reduction,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “As we continue to advocate for bail reform and stronger action on repeat property offenders, this program will help the RCMP quickly identify video evidence following an incident. That strengthens investigations while making it easier for businesses to be part of the solution. It is one of several actions we have advanced in recent weeks to support our local business community and strengthen public safety.” 

Through the program, businesses can voluntarily register the location of their security cameras. Registration does not provide the RCMP with live access, nor does it require businesses to share footage automatically. Instead, it signals that video surveillance might exist, if police request it during an investigation. Businesses always maintain complete control of their equipment and recordings. The CCTV program uses the advancement of technology and builds on lessons learned since a 2020 pilot, resulting in a more robust, streamlined, and effective approach. 

“Businesses can play an active role in improving community safety by registering their cameras with the RCMP," said Kevin Duggan, Acting Community Safety Director for the City of Kelowna. "The registry turns a single camera at a business into part of a neighbourhood network. Businesses will be helping police gather video evidence more efficiently and potentially providing evidence that can help solve crimes."  

The City and RCMP have worked closely together over the past several months to refine the system, ensuring it aligns with security and privacy best practices while being easy for businesses to use. It is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to practical, evidence-based tools that support the business community and strengthen public safety partnerships. 

“The Kelowna RCMP is pleased to launch the Business CCTV Registry in partnership with the City of Kelowna. This tool helps strengthen our relationship with local businesses and makes it easier to share video with investigators when an incident occurs,” said Corporal Steven Lang, Media Relations Officer – Kelowna RCMP. “By knowing where cameras are located, officers can move quickly to advance an investigation through a more defined area. It in turn improves our ability to identify suspects, make arrests and provide a report to the BC Prosecution Service. We appreciate the continued support from the business community in advancing this initiative to improve public safety.” 

The enhanced program is now live and ready for registrations. Register your business CCTV camera and learn more at www.kelowna.ca/businesscctvregistry