Police code 5150 commonly refers to a California mental health hold. It is a public safety and legal reference that readers often hear in scanner traffic, dispatch talk, and incident summaries.
Because it is tied to California law, the safest way to read it is as a context clue rather than a diagnosis or legal conclusion. If you want the broader California reference list, see our California Penal Codes guide and the homepage.
What 5150 Means
In common public use, 5150 points to a California mental health hold. It is often associated with a situation where a person may need evaluation because they may be a danger to themselves, a danger to others, or gravely disabled.
Common Use in Police Radio, Scanner Traffic, or Legal References
You may hear 5150 during calls involving transport, crisis response, or follow-up public safety traffic. The number itself is not the full story, because the legal and operational steps depend on current California law and local procedure.
Plain-English Example
A dispatcher or officer might say the subject is a 5150 and request transport, which tells listeners the call involves a mental health-related hold or evaluation process.
Important Variation Note
Other states may not use 5150 at all, and California agencies can still apply policy differently. Treat it as a useful public reference, not a substitute for legal or clinical guidance.
For related California references, compare 187, 211, 415, and 459.
FAQ
Is 5150 an arrest?
Not necessarily. It is commonly used for a hold or evaluation reference, and the actual procedure depends on California law and local policy.
Is 5150 used outside California?
Usually not in the same way. Some states may recognize the number culturally, but it is most closely tied to California.
Does 5150 mean someone is dangerous?
It can refer to a concern about danger or grave disability, but the number alone does not tell the full story. The surrounding facts always matter.
Should I treat 5150 as legal advice?
No. It is an informational reference only, and current legal details should be checked against up-to-date California law or a qualified professional source.