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December 11, 2023

What You Should Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In St. George

You want the best security for your home, and know that surveillance cameras are an essential element. Just the sight of a camera fixed to the front of your house is enough to deter many trespassers. But are there laws regarding where you can put them and how they may be used? For the most part, there’s nothing to be concerned about, but there are some things you should know regarding home security camera laws.

Understanding Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy

While there aren’t specific home security camera laws from a federal perspective, it is legally recognized that everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy in certain places. For instance, you would expect video recording to be prohibited in private areas like bathrooms, locker rooms, and bedrooms. On the contrary, locations such as the side or front of your house are public and subject to video surveillance. As a general rule, we don’t have a lawful right to privacy in pubilc settings.

Where Do You Have Your St. George Camera Aimed?

One aspect to consider is how you aim your cameras. Even when you have a camera in a public setting, like fastened to your home’s exterior, you can’t point it at a private location like your neighbor’s bathroom. Within your own residence, it’s best to keep cameras away from bedrooms (specifically any used by guests) and bathrooms.

While each state complies with the reasonable expectation of privacy stipulations, there may be associated laws in regards to the placement and usage of surveillance cameras. If you utilize devices in public areas and for the intent of security, you’ll be in good shape, but it’s always a good idea to be informed of your state’s exact regulations.

Are You Permitted To Record Audio From Camera Equipment In St. George?

The audio element of surveillance is not as straightforward as it mostly depends on the state you live in. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) allows for audio recording of private conversations when at least one person consents. So, if you have an audio-capable camera at your home and agree to recording a conversation, you have a legal right to do so. Taking that into account, numerous states have exceeded the requirement of one-party consent and now demand consent from multiple parties. Make sure you understand what is allowed in your state.

Why Utilize Video Cameras At Your St. George Home?

You are legally permitted to operate cameras at your residence, and there are multiple reasons for doing so. Vandals are not as likely to view your home as a target if they notice cameras, as they won’t want to get detected on tape. If a burglary does occur, your footage can be essential to the criminal investigation. But you may employ surveillance systems for much more. You can keep watch of your dearest baby, check in on your pets, and get validation your children have returned from school.

Install ADT Surveillance Systems In St. George From Secure24 Alarm Systems

Choose the best surveillance cameras in St. George by reaching out to the specialists at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will ensure your components are installed precisely and run as expected. Call today at (435) 393-6111 to arrange your appointment.