What To Know About Home Security Camera Laws
You want the best security for your property, and know that surveillance systems are important. Even the presence of a camera perched on the front of your house is enough to scare off many potential intruders. But are there legal restrictions on where you can put them and how to use them? For the most part, there’s nothing to fret over, but there are a couple things you should know regarding home security camera laws.
A Quick Note On Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy
Even though there are no specific home security camera laws from a federal perspective, it is legally acknowledged that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain areas. To illustrate, you would expect video recording to be banned in private spots like bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms. Conversely, areas like the side or front of your residence are public and subject to surveillance. Generally speaking, individuals don’t have a right to privacy in pubilc areas.
Where Do You Have Your Camera Pointed?
Another thing to think about is how you direct your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like fastened to your home’s exterior, you can’t point it at a private area like your neighbor’s bedroom. In your own home, it’s best to keep cameras out of bedrooms (particularly ones occupied by houseguests) and bathrooms.
While all states abide by the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there could be additional laws concerning the placement and usage of video cameras. If you use cameras in public locations and for the purpose of security, you’ll be in good shape, but it’s always to understand your state’s particular regulations.
Can You Record Audio From Surveillance Devices?
The audio aspect of camera systems is trickier as it largely depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for recording audio of private conversations when one individual approves. So, if you have a camera with audio capability on your property and approve of recording communications, you have a legal right to do so. Taking that into account, various states have gone past the one-party consent requirement and now demand consent from two or all parties. Be sure you understand what is approved in your state.
Why Use Cameras At Your Home?
You are legally permitted to use cameras at your home, and there are multiple reasons for doing so. Burglars are much less likely to view your home as a target if they notice video cameras, as they won’t want to get captured on tape. If a robbery does take place, your video can be essential to the criminal investigation. But you are able to employ cameras for much more. You can keep watch of your dearest little one, watch over your four-legged friends, and get visual confirmation your children are home from school.
Install ADT Surveillance Cameras From Secure 24 Alarm Systems
Install the best surveillance cameras by turning to the specialists at Secure 24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our technicians will make sure your cameras are installed properly and run as expected. Give us a call today at (833) 205-9194 to arrange your appointment.