Security Cameras

BC Transit has installed closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras on buses across the province. The CCTV cameras deter inappropriate behavior on buses and provide another tool for investigation if an incident occurs.

The installation of the CCTV cameras followed a proof-of-concept period in Victoria and Kamloops and showed that the cameras provide a positive benefit to enhance security and safety.

By 2025 BC Transit has installed video equipment (CCTV) cameras on the majority of buses across the province. All new buses ordered have the equipment installed upon delivery. Audio recording equipment is present on the buses and is focused around the driver’s compartment.

A key benefit to having the CCTV installed on BC Transit buses includes securing of evidence that leads to increased successful conclusions for security investigations.

Submit a Request

Please see the Freedom of Information (FOI) page for information on how to submit a request. Be sure to provide all necessary information, including the specific records you are requesting and any relevant details about the footage.

CCTV Frequently Asked Questions

How many buses have cameras installed and where are they located?

All conventional buses and the majority of handyDART buses across the province have CCTV cameras installed and active. Audio is included in cameras that are positioned around the driver’s compartment. BC Transit’s fleet includes CCTV and audio throughout the province (outside of Greater Vancouver which is the responsibility of Coast Mountain and TransLink).

Why are cameras being installed?

The safety of our customers and employees is always the number one priority for BC Transit and for WorkSafeBC. Our transit operators are responsible for many lives, both on and off the bus. Examples from other transit systems in North America and the results of a one-year Proof-of-Concept (pilot) project at BC Transit in 2015-16 confirmed that security cameras do provide enhancement to the security and safety of passengers and employees including evidence to ensure successful conclusions for security investigations.

What other North American transit agencies use security cameras on buses?

Large urban centres that use CCTV (security cameras) include: Vancouver (TransLink), Edmonton, Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, Ottawa, Halifax, Montreal, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Denver, New York City, Long Island Railroad, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Diego.

What does this equipment record?

Video cameras inside the buses record any incidents that occur in the passenger area. These cameras cover every part of the interior, while a high-definition front-facing camera in the operator’s cockpit area are used to view events at the front of the bus, such as motor vehicle incidents. In addition, two external-facing cameras are mounted on the outside of each bus. Audio is captured in a limited area around the operator’s compartment.

Are the images or audio captured on cameras permanent?

The video is kept for a maximum of seven days, then is recorded over.

Who will have access to viewing the video recordings?

Only authorized BC Transit safety and security personnel view video recordings.

How will the information on the video recorders be secured?

Buses will be secured in locked parking depots after hours with the information securely stored on each bus. The information on digital hard drives is password-protected and cannot be removed and viewed without using proprietary software controlled by the BC Transit security team.

Will security personnel be watching my activities in real time?

There is no live monitoring. Cameras are operational when the bus is turned on. Video is captured on a digital hard drive and will only be tagged, removed and viewed following a reported incident.