San Diego
United States | California
Updated - October 23, 2025
Picture By: Lucas Fonseca
San Diego, located on the southern coast of California, is known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and vibrant cultural scene. As the second-largest city in California, San Diego boasts a diverse population and a strong economy driven by sectors such as defense, tourism, and biotechnology. The city is home to several military installations, including Naval Base San Diego, which significantly contributes to its economy and culture. San Diego also offers numerous attractions, including Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and historic sites like Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic vitality, San Diego is a dynamic and appealing city for residents and visitors alike.
*Only agencies with a primary jurisdiction in the city limits are listed. Other law enforcement agencies may be seen in San Diego*
-Clicking the agency's name takes you to their homepage-
Local/State Police
| Agency (Click Me) |
Governing Body | Type |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego Police Department | San Diego | Municipal Police |
| San Diego County Sheriff's Office | San Diego County Sheriff | County Police |
| San Diego Unified Police Department | San Diego Unified School District | School Police |
| San Diego Community College District Police Department | San Diego Community College District | Campus Police |
| San Diego State University Police Department | California State University | Campus Police |
| UC San Diego Police Department | University of California | Campus Police |
| San Diego Harbor Police | Port of San Diego | Special Police |
| California Highway Patrol | California | State Police |
Federal Police
*with a visible patrolling prescence*
| Agency (Click Me) |
Governing Body |
|---|---|
| Federal Protective Service | DHS |
| Veterans Affairs Police Department | Veterains Affairs |
Ability to issue California traffic tickets?
| Agency (Click Me) |
Yes/No |
|---|---|
| San Diego Police Department | Yes |
| San Diego County Sheriff's Office | Yes |
| San Diego Unified School District Police Department | Yes |
| San Diego Community College District Police Department | Yes |
| San Diego State University Police Department | Yes |
| UC San Diego Police Department | Yes |
| San Diego Harbor Police | Yes |
| California Highway Patrol | Yes |
| Federal Protective Service | No |
| Veterans Affairs Police Department | No |
*Federal officers can pull you over. They may issue federal traffic tickets on federal property.
Federal officers may also intervene when there is a public safety risk such as a dwi.
- Some uniformed federal officers may be deputized by the state, allowing them to enforce state traffic laws.
- Customs and Border Protection officers may conduct vehicle stops anywhere within the 100 mile zone.*