California police codes form a vital part of CA law enforcement communication, enabling officers to relay information quickly, efficiently, and with as little room for misinterpretation as possible.
In California, the police codes is unique because it blends several different types of codes, including ten codes, eleven codes, and the extensive set of penal codes that apply specifically to legal statutes and offenses in Cali. These codes cover a broad spectrum of information, from routine patrol activities to highly critical emergencies.
In this complete article, we have provided full list of California police codes in addition to our aim to break down the essentials of these California police codes so that you can understand their significance, how they work, and why they are crucial to law enforcement operations across the state.
For broader context, start with the Police Codes Guide and review the accuracy policy before treating any number as current law.
Search California Code References
Search common California code references often heard in public safety or scanner context.
Message received or acknowledged
Common acknowledgment used on many radio channels.
Location
Used to ask where a unit or person is located.
Out of service
A short status update that the unit is unavailable.
In service or available
Used when a unit is back and ready for calls.
Emergency traffic
Often used to clear the channel for urgent messages.
Emergency response
Usually indicates a high-priority emergency response.
No further assistance needed
Commonly used when a scene is under control.
Officer needs help
A serious call that often signals urgent assistance.
Homicide reference
Most commonly tied to California homicide references.
Robbery reference
Often used as shorthand for robbery in California context.
Disturbing the peace
A common reference for disturbance-related calls.
Burglary reference
Common shorthand for burglary-related references.
Mental health hold reference
Usually tied to California mental health hold context.
Prisoner in custody
Often heard after an arrest or during transport.
Suicide or suicide attempt
Commonly used for urgent crisis-related traffic.
Deceased person / possible fatality
Often tied to death or possible death on scene.
Attempted suicide or suicide
Commonly tied to crisis-related calls.
Bomb threat
High-priority public safety call.
Animal bite complaint
Often a lower-acuity call, but still important.
Accident / ambulance call
Often used for accident or ambulance-related calls.
Officer down / urgent help
Common high-priority emergency call.
Commonly associated with 10-20
Search intent page for the location query.
Commonly associated with 11-99
Search intent page for urgent officer assistance.
Commonly associated with Code 3
Search intent page for emergency response queries.
Commonly associated with Code 4
Search intent page for scene-controlled calls.
Commonly associated with 211
Search intent page for robbery references.
Commonly associated with 415
Search intent page for disturbance references.
Commonly associated with 459
Search intent page for burglary references.
California scanner, 10-code, response-code, and penal-code context
Guide page for California scanner context.
Texas scanner and local radio code context
Guide page for Texas scanner context.
Whether police still use 10 codes
Guide page for current 10-code usage.
Why police code meanings differ
Guide page for code variation context.
Difference between scanner codes and penal codes
Guide page for scanner and penal code differences.
No matching code found. Try searching by another code, meaning, or keyword.
Code meanings can vary by department, region, and policy. These are common public meanings, not official agency definitions.
For the most-searched California references, start with 187, 211, 415, 459, and 5150.
What Are California Police Codes?
California police codes are a mix of shorthand codes used by law enforcement agencies throughout the state to facilitate fast and effective communication. There are several types of police codes in use, including ten codes, eleven codes, and California’s penal codes.
These codes play a crucial role in keeping officers, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel on the same page when dealing with rapidly changing situations.
The ten codes are standard radio codes that are often recognized nationally, such as “10-4” to acknowledge a message or “10-20” to ask for an officer’s location. Eleven codes, however, are more regionally specific to California and other nearby areas, covering details like the type of traffic stop or the presence of specific threats.
Then there are the penal codes, which are part of the California legal system itself—these are detailed numerical designations for virtually every criminal offense or legal issue that law enforcement officers might encounter, from minor infractions to major felonies.
Each of these types of codes serves a specific purpose, helping to maintain clarity and brevity in law enforcement communications. While ten and eleven codes allow officers to communicate efficiently over the radio, penal codes ensure that there is a consistent and precise way to refer to specific offenses in reports and legal proceedings.
Together, they form a comprehensive language that keeps California’s law enforcement system functioning smoothly.
California Penal Police Codes (Full List)
Tip: On mobile, scroll the table sideways to see all columns.
| CA Penal Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 69 | Resisting executive officer |
| 148 | Resisting, delaying, or obstructing a peace officer |
| 187 | Murder |
| 192 | Manslaughter |
| 203 | Mayhem |
| 207 | Kidnapping |
| 211 | Robbery |
| 215 | Carjacking |
| 236 | False imprisonment |
| 240 | Assault |
| 242 | Battery |
| 245 | Assault with a deadly weapon |
| 261 | Rape |
| 266 | Enticement of minor for prostitution |
| 270 | Child neglect |
| 272 | Contributing to the delinquency of a minor |
| 273.5 | Domestic violence |
| 286 | Sodomy |
| 288 | Lewd acts with a child |
| 290 | Sex offender registration |
| 314 | Indecent exposure |
| 368 | Elder abuse |
| 381 | Inhalant abuse |
| 415 | Disturbing the peace |
| 417 | Brandishing a weapon |
| 451 | Arson |
| 459 | Burglary |
| 470 | Forgery |
| 487 | Grand theft |
| 488 | Petty theft |
| 496 | Receiving stolen property |
| 503 | Embezzlement |
| 518 | Extortion |
| 537 | Defrauding an innkeeper |
| 594 | Vandalism |
| 597 | Animal cruelty |
| 602 | Trespassing |
| 626.9 | Gun-free school zone |
| 647(b) | Prostitution |
| 647(f) | Public intoxication |
| 664 | Attempted crime |
| 666 | Petty theft with a prior |
| 12020 | Possession of illegal weapons |
| 12025 | Carrying a concealed firearm |
| 12031 | Carrying a loaded firearm in public |
| 18710 | Possession of destructive devices |
| 21510 | Possession of a switchblade knife |
| 23900 | Altering or removing firearm ID numbers |
| 25400 | Carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle |
| 25850 | Carrying a loaded firearm in a public place |
| 26100 | Shooting from a motor vehicle |
| 29610 | Minor in possession of a firearm |
| 30600 | Manufacturing or selling assault weapons |
| 32310 | Large-capacity magazine possession |
| 417.3 | Brandishing a weapon at a vehicle occupant |
| 529 | False impersonation |
| 532 | Fraudulent obtaining of money or property |
| 646.9 | Stalking |
| 653m | Annoying or harassing phone calls |
| 664/187 | Attempted murder |
| 12022.5 | Use of a firearm in the commission of a crime |
| 12034 | Discharging a firearm from a vehicle |
| 18715 | Possession of a destructive device in public |
| 3455 | Violation of post-release community supervision |
California Police 10 Codes
| 10 Code | Meaning | Usage Context | Severity Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-0 | Use caution | High-risk situations | High |
| 10-1 | Weak signal | Communication issues | Low |
| 10-2 | Signal clear | Communication quality | Low |
| 10-3 | Stop transmitting | Cease communication temporarily | Medium |
| 10-4 | Acknowledged (OK) | Confirmation of received message | Low |
| 10-5 | Relay this message | Pass on information | Low |
| 10-6 | Busy | Currently occupied | Low |
| 10-7 | Out of service | Unavailable for response | Medium |
| 10-8 | In service | Available for duty | Low |
| 10-9 | Repeat message | Request for message repeat | Low |
| 10-10 | Negative | Denial or refusal | Low |
| 10-11 | On duty | Reporting active duty | Low |
| 10-12 | Stand by | Await further instruction | Low |
| 10-13 | Weather or road conditions | Inform on environment updates | Low |
| 10-14 | Message or information | General info-sharing | Low |
| 10-15 | Prisoner in Custody | Someone has been detained | Medium |
| 10-16 | Reply to message | Respond to previous communication | Low |
| 10-17 | En route to location | Heading to scene | Medium |
| 10-18 | Urgent | Immediate attention needed | High |
| 10-19 | In contact | Currently communicating | Low |
| 10-20 | Location | Requesting/responding with location | Medium |
| 10-21 | Call by phone | Request phone communication | Low |
| 10-22 | Disregard last message | Cancel previous instruction | Low |
| 10-23 | Arrived at scene | Confirmation of arrival | Medium |
| 10-24 | Task complete | Assignment finished | Low |
| 10-25 | Report to or meet at | Arrange meeting point | Low |
| 10-26 | Estimated arrival time | Provide expected arrival | Medium |
| 10-27 | License or permit check | Run driver or permit check | Medium |
| 10-28 | Vehicle registration check | Run vehicle registration check | Medium |
| 10-29 | Records check | Check for outstanding records | Medium |
| 10-30 | Danger or caution | Warning of a hazard | High |
| 10-31 | Pick up someone or something | Retrieval request | Low |
| 10-32 | Additional units needed | Request backup | High |
| 10-33 | Emergency | Immediate assistance required | High |
| 10-34 | Riot | Crowd control situation | High |
| 10-35 | Major crime alert | Large-scale criminal event | High |
| 10-36 (Vary between states) | Correct time / Assist Police Unit | Request for time / Assistance request | Low |
| 10-37 | Suspicious vehicle | Observe suspicious vehicle | Medium |
| 10-38 | Stopping suspicious vehicle | Intent to stop and check vehicle | High |
| 10-39 | Urgent: use lights and siren | Emergency response | High |
| 10-40 | Silent approach (no lights) | Covert approach | High |
| 10-41 | Starting shift | Begin tour of duty | Low |
| 10-42 | Ending shift | End tour of duty | Low |
| 10-43 | Information | General information request | Low |
| 10-44 | Permission to leave | Approval to exit area | Low |
| 10-45 | Animal carcass on road | Road obstruction | Low |
| 10-46 | Assist motorist | Aid stranded driver | Medium |
| 10-47 | Emergency road repair | Road hazard requiring repair | Medium |
| 10-48 | Traffic control | Manage traffic flow | Medium |
| 10-49 | Traffic light out | Signal malfunction | Medium |
| 10-50 | Accident | Report of a collision | Medium |
| 10-51 | Wrecker needed | Request tow truck | Medium |
| 10-52 | Ambulance needed | Request medical assistance | High |
| 10-53 | Road blocked | Obstruction in roadway | Medium |
| 10-54 | Livestock on highway | Hazard from animals on road | Low |
| 10-55 | Drunk driver | Impaired driver report | High |
| 10-56 | Suicide | Suicide Attempt | High |
| 10-57 | Hit and run | Collision with fleeing suspect | High |
| 10-58 | Direct traffic | Control traffic direction | Medium |
| 10-59 | Escort | Escort a person or vehicle | Medium |
| 10-60 | Suspicious person | Observe person acting suspiciously | Medium |
| 10-61 | Stopping suspicious person | Detain individual for questioning | High |
| 10-62 | Breaking and entering | Burglary report | High |
| 10-63 | Prepare to copy information | Ready for detailed info | Low |
| 10-64 | Crime in progress | Active criminal incident | High |
| 10-65 | Armed robbery | Report of armed theft | High |
| 10-66 | Notify medical examiner | Call coroner for death | High |
| 10-67 | Report of death | Notify of a deceased individual | High |
| 10-68 | Livestock in roadway | Hazard from animals on road | Low |
| 10-69 | Provide phone number | Give contact details | Low |
| 10-70 | Fire alarm | Fire incident report | High |
| 10-71 | Shooting | Active gunfire | High |
| 10-72 | Gun involved | Report involving firearm | High |
| 10-73 | Smoke report | Possible fire sighted | High |
| 10-74 | No contact | Attempted contact unsuccessful | Low |
| 10-75 | In contact | Communication established | Low |
| 10-76 | En route | Heading to location | Medium |
| 10-77 | Estimated time of arrival | Inform arrival estimate | Low |
| 10-78 | Need assistance | Request additional help | High |
| 10-79 | Notify coroner | Inform coroner of death | High |
| 10-80 | Pursuit in progress | Active pursuit | High |
| 10-81 | Breathalyzer report | Results of sobriety test | Medium |
| 10-82 | Reserve lodging | Arrange overnight accommodations | Low |
| 10-83 | School crossing patrol | Guard school crossing | Low |
| 10-84 | If meeting, advise arrival | Provide ETA for meeting | Low |
| 10-85 | Delayed due to… | Reason for delay | Low |
| 10-86 | Officer on duty | Officer on active duty | Low |
| 10-87 | Pick up or distribute checks | Handle check delivery | Low |
| 10-88 | Provide phone number | Share contact info | Low |
| 10-89 | Bomb threat | Suspected explosive report | High |
| 10-90 | Bank alarm | Bank security alarm activated | High |
| 10-91 | Pick up prisoner | Retrieve detained person | Medium |
| 10-92 | Improperly parked vehicle | Vehicle blocking or unsafe | Low |
| 10-93 | Blockade | Intentional road block | High |
| 10-94 | Drag racing | Illegal street racing | Medium |
| 10-95 | Subject in custody | Individual under arrest | Medium |
| 10-96 | Mental health subject | Person needing mental health aid | High |
| 10-97 | Check signal | Test radio signal | Low |
| 10-98 | Task complete | Assignment finished | Low |
| 10-99 | Wanted or stolen item found | Suspected stolen item or person | High |
California Police 11 Codes
| 11 Code | Meaning | State-Dependent Interpretations |
|---|---|---|
| 11-6 | Illegal discharge of firearms | Firearm discharge in prohibited area |
| 11-7 | Prowler | Suspicious person near premises |
| 11-8 | Person down | Unconscious person |
| 11-10 | Take a report | Documentation requested |
| 11-12 | Dead animal | Road hazard (dead animal) |
| 11-14 | Dog bite | Animal control needed |
| 11-15 | Ball game in street | Reckless behavior in roadway |
| 11-17 | Lockout | Locked vehicle or premises |
| 11-24 | Abandoned vehicle | Illegally parked vehicle |
| 11-25 | Traffic hazard | Obstacle or issue affecting traffic flow |
| 11-26 | Abandoned bicycle | Found unattended bicycle |
| 11-27 | Felony warrant check | Wanted suspect check |
| 11-28 | Misdemeanor warrant check | Minor warrant verification |
| 11-29 | No want | No outstanding warrants |
| 11-30 | Incomplete phone call | Disconnection or possible distress |
| 11-31 | Calling for help | Assistance requested immediately |
| 11-41 | Ambulance requested | Medical emergency dispatch |
| 11-42 | No ambulance needed | False alarm on medical call |
| 11-44 | Deceased person | Possible Fatality on scene |
| 11-45 | Attempted suicide | Self-harm report |
| 11-46 | Suicide | Confirmed self-inflicted death |
| 11-47 | Injured person | Non-life-threatening injury |
| 11-48 | Furnish transportation | Provide ride or transport assistance |
| 11-51 | Escort | Vehicle or person accompaniment |
| 11-52 | Funeral detail | Escort for funeral processions |
| 11-54 | Suspicious vehicle | Vehicle behaving unusually |
| 11-55 | Suspicious vehicle (occupants) | Vehicle with unknown occupants |
| 11-56 | Misuse of car | Unauthorized or reckless vehicle use |
| 11-57 | Unidentified vehicle | Vehicle with unclear origin or purpose |
| 11-58 | Radio station request | Request for communication via radio |
| 11-59 | High hazard area | Location with increased risk |
| 11-60 | Attack in progress | Active assault or physical conflict |
| 11-65 | Signal light out | Non-functioning traffic signal |
| 11-66 | Defective signal | Broken or intermittent traffic light |
| 11-67 | Signal repair needed | Maintenance required on signal |
| 11-71 | Fire reported | Fire emergency reported on scene |
| 11-78 | Aircraft accident | Airplane crash or forced landing |
| 11-79 | Accident with ambulance needed | Medical response for crash |
| 11-80 | Fatal accident | Collision resulting in death |
| 11-81 | Accident with minor injuries | Non-fatal collision |
| 11-82 | Property damage accident | Collision with only property damage |
| 11-83 | Accident with no details | Unclear or unverified accident report |
| 11-84 | Direct traffic | Manage traffic flow or direction |
| 11-85 | Tow truck required | Vehicle tow needed on scene |
| 11-86 | Bomb threat | Reported threat of explosives (most common) / VIP escort / Special Security detail |
| 11-87 | Assisting other department | Support for another agency |
| 11-88 | Citizen assist | Help or aid for a civilian |
| 11-89 | Road repair | Maintenance or fix needed on road |
| 11-90 | Bank alarm | Alarm activation at financial institution |
| 11-91 | Animal noise complaint | Noise disturbance involving animal |
| 11-92 | Animal bite complaint | Animal-related injury |
| 11-93 | Animal cruelty complaint | Suspected animal abuse |
| 11-94 | Illegal parking | Parking violation |
| 11-95 | Traffic stop | Officer-initiated vehicle stop |
| 11-96 | Out on vehicle stop | In progress traffic stop for investigation |
| 11-97 | Security check | Routine patrol or area check |
| 11-98 | Meet with citizen | Scheduled interaction with public |
| 11-99 | Officer needs emergency help | Immediate assistance for officer in distress |
How Many California Police Codes Are There?
The exact number of California police codes is difficult to pin down because of the different categories involved. The ten codes and eleven codes include several dozen phrases that are used in everyday communication.
For example, the ten codes may cover standard actions like “10-8” (in service) or “10-7” (out of service), while eleven codes provide more specific instructions, such as “11-44” for a coroner’s case or “11-80” for a major injury accident.
California’s penal codes, on the other hand, are far more extensive. The California Penal Code contains hundreds of individual statutes that cover everything from minor infractions like disturbing the peace to major crimes like homicide.
Penal codes are not only used by law enforcement but also by lawyers, judges, and other members of the criminal justice system to ensure that everyone is referring to the exact same statute when discussing legal matters.
For instance, “Penal Code 187” refers specifically to the crime of murder, while “Penal Code 211” refers to robbery.
What Do California Police Codes Cover?
California police codes cover a broad range of situations that officers might encounter while on duty. The ten codes are typically used to communicate the status of officers, request information, or respond to routine issues. Eleven codes, meanwhile, are designed to address more specific scenarios, particularly those that pertain to public safety, traffic incidents, or officer needs.
- Ten Codes: The ten codes cover general communication needs, such as “10-4” for acknowledgment, “10-33” for an emergency, and “10-99” for a wanted or stolen vehicle. These codes are used not only by police officers but also by dispatchers and other emergency services.
- Eleven Codes: Eleven codes are used more commonly within California and provide additional specificity. They include signals like “11-79” for traffic collisions involving injuries or “11-99” for an officer needing emergency assistance. Eleven codes are particularly useful in clarifying situations that are not adequately covered by the more generalized ten codes.
- California Penal Codes: Penal codes are the legal backbone of California law enforcement, providing a clear framework for what constitutes an offense. They cover everything from minor misdemeanors to major felonies, and they are frequently referenced in police reports, arrest warrants, and court proceedings. For example, “Penal Code 415” relates to disturbing the peace, while “Penal Code 602” refers to trespassing.
This combination of codes ensures that officers can quickly respond to different types of calls, understand the nature of the incident, and take appropriate action without the need for lengthy explanations. Whether it’s reporting a minor vehicle accident or responding to a major felony, having these codes in place makes communication faster and more precise.
Why Are California Police Codes Used?
The primary reason police codes are used is to improve communication efficiency. In a high-pressure environment like law enforcement, the ability to communicate clearly and quickly can be the difference between life and death.
By using codes, officers can relay essential information without taking up valuable time on the radio. This is particularly important in California, where densely populated urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco see a high volume of police activity.
Another important reason is confidentiality. Police codes provide a level of discretion when officers are communicating in public spaces. Using codes allows them to discuss sensitive situations without broadcasting detailed information to bystanders or potential suspects who might be listening.
This is especially true with penal codes, as they provide a legal reference that the general public may not immediately understand, keeping some of the details of the incident between officers and other legal professionals.
Differences Between Ten Codes, Eleven Codes, and Penal Codes
While ten codes, eleven codes, and penal codes are all used by California law enforcement, they serve different functions and contexts:
- Ten Codes: These are general codes that are used nationally, though slight variations may occur between departments. Ten codes are effective for communicating common police activities, like status updates, locations, or simple instructions. They are known for their versatility and are one of the most recognizable forms of police communication.
- Eleven Codes: Eleven codes are more region-specific and are used primarily in California and nearby states. These codes provide a level of detail that is not covered by ten codes. They often relate to specific types of incidents, like traffic situations or officer emergencies. For example, “11-41” means an ambulance is required, and “11-82” refers to a traffic accident without injuries.
- Penal Codes: Penal codes are entirely different from radio communication codes; they are part of the legal framework of California. These numerical designations represent specific laws, offenses, and statutes. Unlike ten and eleven codes, which are shorthand for radio communication, penal codes are used in official documents, arrest records, and legal proceedings. They are integral to the criminal justice system and are understood across all levels of law enforcement, from patrol officers to judges.
These distinctions are crucial for anyone trying to understand how California’s law enforcement agencies operate. Ten and eleven codes help officers communicate effectively over the radio, while penal codes ensure that everyone involved in the justice system is on the same page regarding the legal definitions of crimes and offenses.
The Role of California Penal Codes in Law Enforcement
California penal codes are not just used by police officers; they are a key component of the entire legal system. Each penal code refers to a specific statute, allowing for precision when describing offenses. For law enforcement, knowing the correct penal code is critical when writing reports, issuing citations, or making arrests.
For instance, if an officer arrests someone for burglary, they will refer to “Penal Code 459” in their report, which helps ensure that the arrest aligns with the correct legal standard.
Penal codes also play a significant role in the judicial process. Prosecutors use these codes to determine charges, and judges use them to issue sentences. For this reason, a thorough understanding of the California Penal Code is vital not only for police officers but also for anyone involved in the criminal justice system, including attorneys, judges, and even the accused.
Penal codes offer a level of consistency and structure that ensures fairness and clarity in legal proceedings.
Who Uses California Police Codes?
California police codes are primarily used by law enforcement officers and dispatchers, but their relevance extends beyond just those in uniform. Here’s a look at who might rely on these codes:
- Law Enforcement Officers: Police officers, deputies, and highway patrol officers use these codes daily to communicate with dispatchers and fellow officers. Whether it’s responding to an emergency or conducting a routine traffic stop, these codes help ensure everyone understands the situation.
- Dispatchers: Dispatchers are the communication hub for law enforcement, coordinating responses to incidents across their jurisdiction. They use ten codes, eleven codes, and penal codes to relay information quickly and accurately to the appropriate units.
- Legal Professionals: Attorneys, judges, and paralegals also need a thorough understanding of California penal codes to effectively do their jobs. Knowing the penal code that applies to a particular case is crucial for arguing in court or issuing legal decisions.
- Scanner Enthusiasts: Many civilians, including scanner hobbyists and journalists, listen to police communications using scanners. Understanding California police codes helps these listeners make sense of what they hear, whether they are tracking breaking news or simply staying informed about local activity.
Conclusion
California police codes are an integral part of law enforcement communication, encompassing a wide range of codes designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and confidentiality. From the standardized ten codes used for general communication to the more regionally focused eleven codes, and the detailed California penal codes that serve as the foundation of the state’s legal system, these codes are crucial for the smooth functioning of law enforcement agencies across California.
Understanding these codes provides insight into the complexities of police work, helping civilians, professionals, and enthusiasts alike appreciate the challenges faced by officers in the field.
More California code questions
For the related California references, see Police Code for Robbery, Police Code for Disturbing the Peace, and Police Code for Burglary.
More California context
California references benefit from a little extra context because scanner shorthand and legal-code references can appear together in the same conversation.