Laws On Surveillance Cameras at Home

Laws on surveillance cameras at home can vary by state. As there’s no comprehensive set of regulations that govern residential security cameras or video surveillance, it’s essential to have a broad understanding of the concerns involved with these systems and devices. It’s just as important to know the laws at the state, county, and even local levels.

U.S. Laws Regarding Video Surveillance

All citizens of the country have the right to a reasonable expectation of privacy. Those privacy rights typically mean someone cannot photograph or record someone else if that other person has an expectation of privacy.

Private places can include bathrooms, hotel rooms, locker rooms, bedrooms, changing rooms, and anywhere else a reasonable person would consider a predominately non-public area.

Remember, Local Laws and Restrictions Apply

For most people, the home security camera laws of their respective states outline the more concrete legalities to stay aware of and adhere to. The rules can vary widely between states, whether it concerns an outdoor camera or an inside one. Interestingly, not every state has specific security camera laws. However, local laws and regulations can still come into play.

Here is a look at how some states handle laws on surveillance at home:

1. In Georgia, recording someone, whether publicly or privately, isn’t against the law as long as the video surveillance cameras aren’t hidden. However, consent laws are still in play.

2. In Alabama, it’s okay to use hidden video cameras to record in non-private settings. The caveat is that the person doing the recording must represent someone who is part of the conversation or activity they’re recording. Intent matters a lot as well. Malicious intent to eavesdrop or spy isn’t legal in the state.

3. California is a two-party consent state. Everybody involved needs to consent to have themselves or their conversation recorded. However, that law doesn’t apply in public where there’s no real expectation of privacy.

Counties may have ordinances, and even an HOA may have rules regarding the use of outside security cameras. Also, know that laws concerning home surveillance systems and recording devices have changed.

Audio Recording Vs. Laws on Surveillance Cameras

A distinction between audio and video recording exists. The one and two-party consent laws came about because of audio recording before video became so widespread. Here are some differences between audio and video recording laws.

1. Covert video recording has a higher level of legal acceptance.
2. Secret audio recording comes with a host of laws against it.
3. Video recording doesn’t always have specific laws governing it.
4. An audio recording has particular laws at the federal and state levels.

Also, a legal difference can exist between recording and surveilling. In some jurisdictions, surveillance is just fine, but to record video isn’t always okay. Many video surveillance systems can handle audio and video, which can sometimes lead to a gray area.

Home Surveillance Cameras FAQ

The most important thing someone should know before installing security cameras is the broader state laws and the specific local laws.

Can A Security Camera Be Aimed at My House?

A security camera can point toward someone else’s home. The only time when this isn’t acceptable is if the home security cameras point at a place where someone else would generally expect privacy. In almost all cases, intent matters here.

Suppose the neighbor’s security camera pointing at your home comes as an act of retaliation or exists for ill intent. In that case, the matter can become a matter for authorities and the courts. If there’s a concern, it’s typically best to go to the neighbor’s house and see if there’s anything that will make the situation workable for all.

Do You Have to Tell Someone You Have Cameras in Your House?

There’s no imperative to inform someone that a camera is in the home unless that camera will record them. And that recording caveat typically only applies to audio. However, whether or not it’s legal, it’s often a good idea to inform someone that the home they’re in contains cameras.

Are Hidden Cameras Legal?

Hidden cameras are indeed legal. However, in most cases, hidden camera surveillance doesn’t violate any laws. Hence, the reason so many nanny-cams exist. In addition, using a hidden camera in a public space also doesn’t come with any legal issues.

This is another area where intent can come into play. What’s legal usually can become illegal when malfeasance becomes involved.

Summary

Don’t assume that purchasing and installing video surveillance equipment will land anyone in hot water. You can add video security measures inside and outside your home without too many restrictions. Just look at what the state and local authorities have to say.

The video surveillance laws aren’t designed to stop people from rightfully securing their homes. So, you can confidently purchase or consult a professional about a home security system.