What To Understand About Home Security Camera Laws In Lancaster
You want the best security for your famiy, and know that surveillance systems are an essential element. Just the sight of a camera attached to the front of your house is enough to scare off many potential intruders. But are there laws regarding where you can place them and how you may use them? For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about, but there are a few things you need to know regarding home security camera laws.
Reasonable Expectation Of Privacy Overview
While there aren’t specific home security camera laws from a federal standpoint, it is legally understood that all people have a reasonable expectation of privacy in specific areas. To illustrate, you would expect locker rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms to be private and not suitable for video recording. On the contrary, places such as the front or perimeter of your property are public and subject to video recording. Generally speaking, people don’t have a right to privacy in a public surrounding.
Where Is Your Lancaster Camera Aimed?
Another thing to think about is how your cameras are positioned. Even if you have a camera in a public area, like fixed to your home’s exterior, you can’t point it directly at a private location like your neighbor’s interior. In your own residence, it’s best to abstain from using cameras in bedrooms (particularly ones occupied by guests) and bathrooms.
While each state adheres to the reasonable expectation of privacy requirements, there could be additional laws regarding the use of video cameras. If you have surveillance in public locations and for the purpose of security, you shouldn’t have anything to fret over, but it’s always smart to be informed of your state’s particular regulations.
Are You Allowed Record Audio From Surveillance Devices In Lancaster?
The audio element of surveillance systems is trickier as it depends largely on where you live. A federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2511) authorizes recording audio of private communications as long as one party approves. So, if you have a camera with audio capabilities at your residence and agree to recording communications, you are legally allowed to do so. Taking that into account, numerous states have exceeded the one-party consent requirement and now require consent from all parties. Make sure you know what is permitted in your state.
Why Use Cameras At Your Lancaster Property?
You are legally allowed to install cameras at your home, and there are excellent reasons for doing so. Burglars are much less likely to target your property if they spot cameras, as they won’t want to get detected on video. If a robbery does take place, your video may be essential to law enforcement’s investigation. But you may utilize cameras for much more. You can monitor your dearest little one, check in on your four-legged friends, and get proof your children are back from school.
Get The Best ADT Surveillance Cameras In Lancaster From Secure24 Alarm Systems
Choose the best surveillance cameras in Lancaster by contacting the experts at Secure24 Alarm Systems. We’re an Authorized ADT Dealer, and our service people will make sure your cameras are installed correctly and function as planned. Place a call today at (717) 256-1587 to arrange your appointment.