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December 11, 2023

What You Should Know About Home Security Camera Laws In Riverside

You want your property to be fully protected, and know that surveillance cameras are a big part of it. Just the existence of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to frighten away many prowlers. But are there legal limitations as to where you can put them and how to use them? All things considered, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are some things you ought to know regarding home security camera laws.

Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Overview

While there are no particular federal home security camera laws, it is legally understood that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific places. To illustrate, you would expect bedrooms, bathrooms and locker rooms to be private and not acceptable for video recording. On the other hand, areas like the front or perimeter of your residence are public and open to video surveillance. Generally speaking, we don’t have a legal right to privacy in a public setting.

Where Do You Have Your Riverside Camera Pointed?

One thing to think about is how your cameras are aimed. Even when you have a camera in a public place, like fixed to the front of your house, you can’t aim it toward a private setting like your neighbor’s bathroom. In your own home, it’s smart to abstain from installing cameras in bedrooms (particularly ones frequented by visitors) and bathrooms.

While all states adhere to the reasonable expectation of privacy guidelines, there could be additional laws regarding the usage and placement of surveillance cameras. If you utilize surveillance in public areas and for the explicit purpose of security, you’ll be in compliance, but it’s always to understand your state’s specific restrictions.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Surveillance Systems In Riverside?

The audio aspect of surveillance systems is trickier as it depends largely on where you live. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for audio recording of private conversations as long as one person agrees. So, if you have a camera with audio functionality at your residence and consent to recording communications, you are legally allowed to do so. With that being said, many states have gone beyond the one-party consent law and now demand consent from two or all parties. Make sure you understand what is permitted in your state.

Why Use Surveillance At Your Riverside Property?

You have a legal right to install cameras at your property, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Burglars are much less likely to view your home as a target if they spot surveillance, as they don’t want to be caught on video. If a robbery does take place, your recording can be crucial to law enforcement’s investigation. But you are able to utilize cameras for even more. You might observe your precious baby, look after your furry friends, and get visual confirmation your children are home from school.

Install ADT Home Security Cameras In Riverside From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Get the best surveillance systems in Riverside by reaching out to the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your cameras are installed correctly and operate as expected. Give us a call today at (951) 253-3041 to request your appointment.