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December 11, 2023

What You Should Know About Home Security Camera Laws In College Station

You want your family to have the best security, and know that surveillance cameras are important. The mere existence of a camera fixed to your house is enough to deter many potential intruders. But are there laws regarding where you may put them and how you may use them? All things considered, there’s nothing to fret over, but there are a few things you should know in regards to home security camera laws.

General Guidelines For Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

While there aren’t particular federal home security camera laws, it is legally recognized that all citizens have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific places. To illustrate, you would expect video recording to be banned in private spots like bathrooms, bedrooms, and locker rooms. On the other hand, places such as the front or side of your residence are public and open to video recording. As a general rule, people don’t have a legal right to privacy in a public surrounding.

Where Is Your College Station Camera Directed?

One thing to think about is how you direct your cameras. Even if you have a camera in a public place, like fastened to your home’s exterior, you can’t point it directly at a private area like your neighbor’s interior. Inside your own house, it’s smart to abstain from placing cameras in bedrooms (particularly the ones occupied by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states abide by the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there could be associated laws in regards to the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you use surveillance in public places and for the explicit purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about, but it’s always wise to know your state’s specific regulations.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In College Station?

The audio aspect of camera systems is more complicated as it depends largely on where you live. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for audio recording of private exchanges when one individual approves. So, if you have a camera with audio capability on your property and consent to recording a conversation, you can legally do so. However, various states have exceeded the one-party consent law and now require consent from multiple parties. Be sure you understand what is allowed in your state.

Why Utilize Video Cameras At Your College Station Property?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your home, and there are multiple reasons for doing so. Vandals are much less inclined to target your property if they see surveillance, as they won’t want to be caught on video. If a burglary does occur, your video can be essential to the police investigation. But you can utilize surveillance systems for even more. You might keep watch of your darling newborn, check in on your furry friends, and get proof your children have returned from school.

Get The Best ADT Surveillance Systems In College Station From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Get the best video cameras in College Station by reaching out to the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your devices are installed properly and operate as intended. Call today at (979) 330-5973 to schedule an appointment.