Police code 10-20 commonly means location. It is one of the most practical 10 codes because it helps dispatchers, officers, and scanner listeners keep track of where a call is happening.
If you want the broader list, see our Police 10 Codes guide or return to the homepage for the main hub of common code pages.
What 10-20 Means
10-20 is a location request or location update. In everyday use, it helps someone ask where a unit is or tell others where they are headed.
Common Use in Police Radio, Scanner Traffic, or Status Calls
A dispatcher may ask, “What is your 10-20?” when they need an officer’s location. In scanner traffic, that same phrase gives listeners a quick clue about where an incident is unfolding.
Plain-English Example
A unit might say, “10-20 at the east entrance,” so the dispatcher knows exactly where to direct help or follow-up traffic.
Important Variation Note
Some agencies use 10-20 as a question, while others use it as a response or shorthand for an address. A few departments do not use it at all, so local context still matters.
For nearby context, review Police 10 Codes and the more specific individual code pages for 10-4, 10-7, and 10-8.
FAQ
Is 10-20 always about location?
Most of the time, yes. The exact wording can still vary, but location is the common public meaning people look for.
Can 10-20 mean an address?
In practice, yes. Some agencies use it to ask for a spot, address, or general location depending on the radio traffic.
Why does 10-20 matter on scanners?
It gives listeners a fast reference point for where an incident is happening. That helps the rest of the traffic make more sense.
What codes are closest to 10-20 in daily use?
10-4, 10-7, 10-8, and 10-33 often appear around the same type of routine radio traffic. They are useful companion pages for readers who want the full picture.